Bangladesh vs India

The Bangladesh vs India ODI and test match series gets underway on Thursday.

I guess it's a reflection of the relative success Bangladesh experienced in the world cup that this series is being televised on Sky sports tv in the UK. That, together with the fact, India are almost the Brazil of international cricket by having Tendulkar, Shewag, Ganguly, Yuvraj, Dhoni and even Dravid in the side. All quite easy on the eye or high on entertainment value. Though this Thursday Tendulkar and Ganguly won't be on offer. (What happened to Ganguly after the world cup, was ridiculous in my opinion. I have an image of Greg Chappell gripping Ganguly tight by the knees and dragging him into the ocean with him).

I remember watching a South Africa vs Bangladesh series on Sky years ago and it was cringeworthy tv - such was the gulf of difference in quality and the lack of atmosphere (typical of South Africa test series).

I fear this series may turrn out to be the same also. Bangladesh play 5 bad matches for every half decent fist of a game. Yet nonetheless I shall be tuning in on Thursday with a little eager anticipation - such is my personality type.

The other sign of improved recognition for Bangladesh cricket was New Zealand hosting a series against them - apparently on the back of the world cup campaign. yes, New Zealand where Martin Crowe, that renowned fan of Bangladeshi cricket , rules supreme over the airwaves apparently. The seaming wickets may give rise to some easy wins, and a few easy notches for Shane Bond (and even Mortaza - injurys not withstanding - and I say this with regards to both of these guys) - but may improve the technique of the Bangladeshi boys, providing they stay in long enough.



So Thursday 4.30am it is.