teams-ba sport cricket-world-cup Virgin Media
Who can forget the day sub-continental minnows Bangladesh upset table-toppers Pakistan by 62 runs in the 1999 World Cup? Thus adding to their win over Scotland earlier in the tournament. The 2003 WC was a different story though, losing all their matches (bar one no-result against the West Indies) including an embarrassing 60-run defeat to the Canadians. Bangladesh are capable of pulling off an upset or two once every blue moon and usually have the beating of fellow international minnows Zimbabwe. Dotted with naturally talented players and under the wise counsel of coach Dav Whatmore, Bangladesh will be a force to be reckoned with in years to come. For now though, Sri Lanka and India will have the beating of them in Pool B thus ensuring an early exit for Whatmore's troops.
Habibul 'Sumon' Bashar has been at the forefront of Bangladesh's emergence onto the international scene from the word go. Can be blamed for being a tad impulsive in his captaincy and not strategic enough but it has paid off on the odd occasion. Bats mostly at number four for his nation and capable of some hefty blows as well as some exquisite timing.
Aftab Ahmed is the perennial big-hitter for his country. Has proven his willow-wielding expertise against all international attacks and is not afraid of the magnitude of facing up to the likes of Aussie speedster Brett Lee and the like. His attacking approach will provide some heavy impetus at the top end of the Bangladeshi innings and his occasional handy medium-pacers always come in handy too.
Farhad Reza is just 20 years old and is the only Bangladeshi to score a half-ton on ODI international debut. World Cup '07 will be his chance to step up to the plate in a big way. He is a batting all-rounder very capable of filling the role of strike-bowler if needed, though can be a touch on the expensive side. His penchant for the pull could prove fruitful on the bouncy island tracks.
Hopeful wishes of a win over India or Sri Lanka will quickly be laid to rest and see Bangladesh exit before the Super Eight stages. Though, they will go home with a consolation win over Bermuda under their belt.
