Dhaka, Sep 1: Newly-appointed bowling coach Courtney Walsh thinks the Bangladesh cricket team has a "talented bunch of players" and is looking forward to begin working with them.

The West Indies fast bowling great agreed to a three-year contract with the Bangladesh Cricket Board which begins this week, the board said on Thursday (September 1), reports bdnews24.com.

The 53-year-old Walsh, the most successful bowler from the Caribbean Islands with 519 Test wickets, recently completed his role as a West Indies selector.

"Having watched Bangladesh cricket from afar over the years, they are a seriously talented bunch of players," Walsh said in a statement.

"Chandika Hathurusingha has done a wonderful job thus far as head coach so hopefully I can complement his skills and continue the positive progress."

"Obviously the West Indies is my home but the chance to go in a new direction on the coaching front and with such a talented group, was one I couldn't look past."

The Bangladesh job will be the first senior role for Walsh, who in the past has managed the West Indies Under-19 team and been a bowling consultant for the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League among others.

Walsh takes office in a time when Bangladesh are gearing up for international action after a break of almost six months.

He will prepare his disciples for three 50-over matches against Afghanistan at home later this month before Bangladesh host England next.

"We are delighted to have Courtney in our ranks. He is a role model to millions and his fast bowling knowledge is second to none," BCB Chief Executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury said.

"Bangladesh cricket at present is going through the best pace bowling phase in our history and Courtney's involvement I am sure will take it to greater heights."

IANS