Ashraful confident of turning Sri Lanka into a happier destination

Dhaka, June 15 (UNI) Notwithstanding that Sri Lanka has never been a happy touring destination for the his boys, newly appointed Bangladesh skipper Mohammad Ashraful is determined to show a more fighting side of them this time around.

Ashraful claimed his side has what it takes to do better in Sri Lanka this time in the upcoming three Tests and three one-dayers against the islanders although past tours there have not gone well for the Tigers.

''This time I see more self-confidence in every player. Also, we have plenty of international experience. That gives me reasons to feel optimistic about this series,'' Ashraful said.

Admitting Bangladesh's limitations, he said ''Most teams have struggled there in recent times. We toured Sri Lanka four times but could not play well.

''My personal team target is to play throughout the five days in all the three Tests. We have emphasised on our batting in the practice sessions.

''Sri Lanka are a very good team. But, we have been playing good cricket in the ODIs for the last 12-13 months. That is why there is more confidence is the team,'' said Ashraful at a media briefing after the team had its final training session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur before they leave for Sri Lanka.

The Tigers fly out of Dhaka tomorrow evening and are scheduled to reach Colombo via Doha the next day. Bangladesh will play three Tests starting June 25, to be followed by three ODIs.

Bangladesh interim coach Shaun Williams said he was excited to be involved with the side after Dav Whatmore stepped down.

''It's a terrific excitement to get involved with the national team. It's not the opportunity to make fame in terms of coaching because players are the players but obviously there is a little bit more expectation with the national team. It's a young team and moving forward. So definitely it's an exciting prospect.

''There is a lot of talent in this group of players. We are looking to make sure that each day we are learning something and moving forward. We feel that there is a lot of talent in this group particularly in the one-day game.'' UNI XC SAM PDS BST1308