The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for high flame temperature oxy-combustion that enables the capture of CO2 cost effectively. One part of the presently disclosed subject matter comprises an annular shroud burner which utilizes a supply of undiluted oxygen and minimal flue gas recycle to generate a high flame temperature to maximize efficiency. The annular shroud burner may deliver oxygen into a combustion zone where mixing of the oxygen and a stream of fuel occurs. Flue gas recycled from the exit of the combustion system serves the dual purpose of conveying the coal into the reaction zone, as well as providing local cooling and protection from high incident heat fluxes through the novel shroud cooling design. The annular shroud burner may be configured to produce an axial jet flame that controls the rate of mixing of oxygen and fuel, thereby extending the heat release. Oxygen and coal may be mixed in a ratio such that peak flame temperatures exceed 4,500° F. (2,482° C.) while the flow of recycled flue gas is regulated to control flame temperature and protect burner components and near-burner surfaces.