Whatmore backs Bangladesh to impress

Dav Whatmore believes his Bangladesh team will make a few people sit up and take notice in the first half of this Ashes-dominated season, saying: "There is some real talent in this group." Whatmore, born in Sri Lanka and a Test batsman for Australia, is far better known here than any of the players he coaches from a country just starting their first proper tour of England.

He has been linked with the post of India coach, but for now is concentrating on trying to help the side with Test cricket's worst record make a good impression.

"We don't go into any match now with any feeling other than we really believe in ourselves and that we're going to push and push hard," he said, before adding the rider: "Success to me is measured in areas other than results."

Whatmore went on: "There is some real talent in this group and if people see a glimpse of one or two of these players then I'm sure they'll be impressed."

He singled out 21-year-old fast bowler Mashrafe Mortaza. "The boy can play," Whatmore said. "He's got tremendous potential."

The First Test begins at Lord's on 26 May. The Second Test, at Chester-le-Street, starts on 3 June.

Today's fixtures: County Championship Div 1 - Hove: Sussex v Warwicks. Tour match - Fenners: British Univ v Bangladesh