Young Bangla side has the potential: Whatmore

Jaipur, Oct 10 (UNI) Bangladesh coach Dave Whatmore today said his boys proved in their 37-run defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka in Mohali that they could stand up against any team in the world.

''Even at 78 for four the team gave a good chase to the mamonth total of 302 set by the Lankans. The youngesters showed that they have the potential to stand up against the best in the world,'' Whatmore said in the pre-match press conference here today.

Bangladesh take on holders West Indies in their second qualifying match at Sawai Man Singh stadium here tomorrow.

Whatmore said his boys fielded well but have to curve on the number of extras conceded.

''We gave away so many runs in extras. This we have to contain,'' he said.

He said the team has come a long way and their efforts were to stay alive in the competition.

''We are a lot more competitive and confident than last Champions trophy.'' Whatmore said promotion of youngester Mohammad Ashraful to the opening slot was part of a strategic move and said his side's batting positon tomorrow would be decided after looking the pitch.

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