Bangladesh hire Andy Roberts

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to hire Andy Roberts, the former West Indian fast bowler, to coach their quick bowlers. The board is expected to finalise the contract immediately so that they are able to use his services before the tour of Sri Lanka.

The BCB President Ali Asgar Lobi, MP, told a private TV channel: "We are trying to bring him for the preparation of the bowlers in the upcoming tour of the national side."

Roberts worked with Bangladesh in 2001 and played an important role in the emergence of Mashrafe Mortaza. Lobi said that it was this experience, and the non-availability of the other probable bowlers, which led the board back to Roberts. Lobi also hinted that he would be offered a long-term contract until the next World Cup in 2007 as Bangladesh strives to strengthen their attack.

Roberts's inclusion in the coaching staff, alongside the coach Dav Whatmore, will be very helpful for the Bangladesh seamers, who had experienced a chastening experience during the tour of England.