In terms of pure statistics, Bangladesh have lost 25 of their 26
tests, 15 of them by an innings. The only draw was when rain saved
them against Zimbabwe at Dhaka two years ago. But experts, including
England skipper Michael Vaughan, are finally saying that
Bangladesh's maiden test win cannot be far away. The main reason for
hope is a bowling attack capable of taking wickets, especially on a
turning track such as the Bangabandhu stadium in Dhaka.
Bangladesh show greater promise of better things
DHAKA - Just eight months ago, when they were outshone by Kenya and
even outsiders Canada and the Netherlands at the 2003 World Cup,
there were cries that Bangladesh deserved to be stripped of their
full Test status.
But the small south Asian nation, perhaps even more cricket-crazy
than neighbouring India, has shown greater promise since then by
scaring Pakistan, pushing England and managing to go to Australia
without being humiliated.
Coach Dav Whatmore, regarded as one of the best minds in the game
and recognised as the man responsible for inspiring Sri Lanka to the
1996 World Cup victory, says the team needs support.
"This is not the time when we need people to say we're terrible,"
the former Australian test player said after Bangladesh lost to
England by 329 runs at Chittagong last weekend. But sarcasm and
criticism have been more forthcoming than support so far for the
"Tigers", a nickname that cricket fans often find ironic.
In terms of pure statistics, Bangladesh have lost 25 of their 26
tests, 15 of them by an innings. The only draw was when rain saved
them against Zimbabwe at Dhaka two years ago.
But experts, including England skipper Michael Vaughan, are finally
saying that Bangladesh's maiden test win cannot be far away. The
main reason for hope is a bowling attack capable of taking wickets,
especially on a turning track such as the Bangabandhu stadium in
Dhaka.
Left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique has emerged as a potent force in
the last two series, picking up 17 wickets in Pakistan and 10 in two
tests against England.
He does not favour flight but maintains a good line. His lethal arm
ball, which shoots straight through, is extremely tough to read as
Rikki Clarke found out the hard way in Dhaka, bowled not offering a
shot to a ball pitched outside off-stump.
But it is a surprise that Rafique, who has 36 wickets at an
impressive 27.69, has played only eight tests. The selectors have
often preferred Enamul Haque Snr (18 wickets in 10 matches at an
average of 57) in the last three years. Mashrafe Mortaza, 20, is the
other world-class option.
Khaleej times 6th November 2003
