The food served at the air-conditioned boxes and the media enclosure during Iftar was surprisingly poor in quality and some journalists and guests even complained of finding stale items in their snack boxes.

"This is simply unbelievable. How could the Board (BCB) allow such rotten food to be served? We have paid 30,000 Taka for a box. Is this some kind of a joke?" Fumed an aged cricket fan.

Journalists present at the BNS were also taken aback by the food.

"This is unfortunate. We will take the matter up with the caterers," said BCB's media committee chairman Reazuddin Al Mamun.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has a proud tradition of providing quality food to the media and guests during international cricket events in this country. However, there have been complaints that the standards have dropped in recent times.

FANS SPOILING TIGERS?
The Bangladesh crowd is simply amazing. Otherwise how can you explain the packed stands every time the Tigers play despite their horrendous batting match after match after match?

"It didn't come as a surprise to me that our top order once again flopped. But it is awesome how the cricket crazy fans have filled the galleries to lend their support to the players," said a former cricketer.

Over 30,000 supporters turned up yesterday to see the second ODI even though the Tigers had been bundled out for 86 the first game in Chittagong and have not crossed 200 for seven matches.

"You see we hardly have any scopes for recreation in the capital and that's why we come to the cricket. It is also the love for the game that brings us to the ground even though our boys continuously frustrate us," said Rafiz, a college student.

A BCB official however, was concerned how long this love affair would last if the Tigers continue to play poorly.

"How much more can the fans take? Our batsmen are making us really nervous," said the official.

NOT MAKING ENOUGH SOUND!
Experienced local coach Jalal Ahmed Chowdhury has came up with an interesting observation about the Bangladeshi batsmen.

"You see when our top batsmen in their stance hit the crease with their bats, it makes beautiful sounds. When they actually hit the ball, you can barely hear a contact," quipped Chowdhury.