England find there is a sting in the tail

Earlier this week, England routed a President's XI for 57 in central Dhaka. But today, 30 miles into the suburbs at the HQ of this country's cricket academy, the opponents were made of sterner stuff. They also had a class act in Iqbal, who may not have to wait much longer for a first taste of senior international cricket. Harmison, Richard Johnson, Matthew Hoggard and Rikki Clarke were soon sweating in sauna-like conditions.

But Iqbal looked totally cool, dominating a stand of 103 with Rajin Saleh.

With spinners Ashley Giles and Gareth Batty also unable to break through, England needed some luck. It came via Johnson when Saleh looked unlucky to be given out caught behind for 28 while attempting to defend on the back foot.

Then Clarke ran out Nazimuddin with a direct hit from backward point and, perhaps sensing a collapse, Iqbal not only hoisted Hoggard-beyond mid-off to reach three figures but also drove a four and a six off Batty.

Now running on adrenaline, the opener handed Batty some revenge by holing out to long-on. But although Giles and Hoggard quickly claimed a cheap wicket apiece, England still took another 30 overs to finish off the innings.