BD team preview

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Bangladesh



Still a long, long way from living up to their lofty status, but Bangladesh are far removed from the disjointed rabble who bombed out of the last World Cup with defeats to Kenya and Canada. Under the firm-but-fair guidance of Dav Whatmore, an emphasis on basic discipline and fitness is beginning to pay dividends, and their recent tour of the Caribbean demonstrated that the gap between them and the rest is closing, albeit slowly. The loss of their captain and leading batsmen, Habibul Bashar, is a grievous blow, but it could yet force the rest of a young squad to shelve their indiscretions.




Man to watch
If Ashley Giles can take 21 wickets on England's midsummer pitches, then Mohammad Rafique, another spinner flushed with confidence at present, could also pose some significant questions - not least to the same West Indian left-handers who faltered against England this year. Quite apart from his ebullient bowling, Rafique is a tailend biffer who delights in the unorthodox, and has a Test century to his name to prove it.




New kid on the block
This time last year, 23-year-old Rajin Saleh had not been seen at international level. Now he is captain of Bangladesh, where his abilities are about to be scrutinized by millions on a global stage. It is a daunting prospect, but judging by his fearless approach to batting - he is never afraid to take his share of blows - Saleh is very much equipped for the task ahead. His devotion to physical fitness sets him apart from his peers, and suggests he will lead by example in all aspects of Bangladesh's development. Andrew Miller

Source: Cricinfo