Bangladesh turns to Twenty20 cricket

Bangladesh is set to become the latest country to adopt the Twenty20 format, when the second season of Corporate Cricket League (CCL) begins in Dhaka on October 15.

"We decided to pick up the format to add some extra significance to the league," Kondoker Jamil Uddin told The Bangladesh Observer on Friday. "We already discussed the matter with our sponsors, GrameenPhone, and they agreed with us."

The concept was pioneered in England in the 2003 season, and swiftly adopted by South Africa, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The Bangladesh version will consist of a league of 12 teams, playing two matches a day. "It was in our mind to expand the number of teams," added Jamil, "but we cancelled it considering the time frame of our entire domestic schedule."

The experience of fast scoring in a pressure-cooker atmosphere can only help develop the national side's one-day skills, which have been distinctly lacking since they attained full international status. The recent Champions Trophy, in which Bangladesh slumped to heavy defeats against South Africa and West Indies, once again showcased their shortcomings.