The Tigers' first-ever tour to this part of the world starts with a limited-overs practice match against the West Indies Cricket Board Eleven today and already the whole island is buzzing in anticipation. Everyone knows that the Bangladesh team is in town and the two one-day internationals to be played here later on May 15 and 16 has even found a mention in the calendar of events for the month of May in the official tourism brochure.

Bangladesh team management yesterday named the playing eleven for the match with Shahriar Hossain and Manjarul Islam likely to open the batting.

With just one warm-up game before the demanding one-dayers, Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar hinted yesterday that the side that plays in the tour opener could be retained for the first ODI.

"We are basically going into the first fixture with the one-day international in mind. So, it could be the same team that takes the field on May 15. We are trying to play 12 cricketers in the warm-up game so that more people get some form of match-practice," said Bashar.

Even before the first ball has been bowled, the Bangladesh captain is already feeling a new vibe in the side.

"All the players are very strong mentally even newcomers like Raj (Abdur Razzak) and Deecans (Faisal Hossain). We are not going to get overawed by anybody," he added.

"The team is mentally stronger since the tour of Australia and most importantly the boys are not scared of the reputation of their opponents. Our only focus is our own game and how we can perform to the best of our abilities. We still plan for certain individuals but it's not the case of thinking 'Oh! It's Lara, he's going to destroy me' anymore," added the 32-year-old.

Tour operations manager Faruque Ahmed was also echoed the same sentiment.

"Maybe the surroundings have got something to do with it because ever since we got here, I have noticed a greater bonding in the team. They are acting like a unit," said the former national skipper who is also the chief selector.

The West Indies Board Eleven players flew in on Monday from different parts of the Caribbean. The biggest name in the side is out of favour left-hander Wavell Hinds. Other internationals include a remodelled Jermaine Lawson, who will be desperate to show that he is as quick as ever after his struggles with injury and a suspect action, Sylvester Joseph and Ryan Hinds.

The match will start at 9:30am local time (7:30 BST). Local radio will carry live commentary throughout the Caribbean region. The weather is bright and sunny with occasional sprinkles of rain.

BANGLADESH TEAM

Habibul Bashar (captain), Rajin Saleh, Shahriar Hossain, Mohammad Ashraful, Alok Kapali, Mushfiqur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud, Khaled Mashud, Mohammad Rafique, Manjarul Islam, Tapash Baisya.