It was the match of the two centurions. Andy Flower's first one-day century against India almost pulled it off for Zimbabwe, but in the end, Mohammad Kaif's 111, and his 117-run sixth-wicket partnership with Rahul Dravid, won India the day. Kaif's partnership with Dravid was outstanding because it was so unspectacular. India were rattling along at more than six an over when they came together, but were dangerously close to being bowled out well short of 50 overs. The two batsmen recognised that and eschewed risks, but didn't allow the innings to lose momentum. They scored from 55% of the deliveries, taking 69 singles, but hitting just five boundaries. Kaif struck only one four during the partnership, and yet scored at a strike rate of 71%.

Their effort was also special for the chanceless manner in which they scored their runs. Dravid and Kaif were in control of almost 92% of the deliveries – an incredibly high figure for a limited-overs match.

Flower's ability to make each ball count was equally impressive – he scored off 53% of the deliveries he faced. He identified his scoring areas – square of the wicket on either side – and stuck to them. Only eight of his 145 runs came in the V between mid-off and mid-on.

For a player who is so adept against spinners, Flower was surprisingly restrained against Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh, scoring at a rate of 64 runs per 100 balls, against an overall strike rate of 88. It was an indication of the control with which the two spinners bowled. England had better watch out.

S Rajesh is sub editor of Wisden.com in India.

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