It was not sure if Khaled Mahmud would be skippering the Tigers in the home series against England. But with the official

announcement still pending, the

issue seemed to have little effect on

the gutsy cricketer's candid views about his team's preparations.

Mahmud has led Bangladesh to two inspiring tours of Australia and Pakistan despite his fluctuating performances with bat and ball. But his performance would have little bearing on his leadership, as the Board is most likely to retain him for the series. The announcement will be made tomorrow.

But whether captain or not Mahmud is happy to speak his mind. He also gave a sporting response to Michael Vaughan's on arrival statements.

Vaughan said on Wednesday that England would prepare for the two Tests and three one-day internationals as if they were involved in an Ashes Test. "We are not worried how seriously they (England) are taking us. Our focus will be preparing as best as we can. They have real batting depth. So that is an area we will need to work on if we are going to get them out quickly," said the 33-year-old allrounder during the Tigers' indoor practice session at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP) yesterday.

"They can say what they want. But I believe our preparations will be same as in any other series."

The inclement weather caused both the home side and visitors to travel to country's lone sports institute on the outskirts of the capital in the morning. The Englishmen had their indoor nets after the Bangladesh players.

Mahmud also thought that a grassy wicket would give his bowlers a better chance to bowl the opposition out twice.

"A flat wicket always favours batsmen. But a green-top will encourage both batsmen and bowlers. The time has changed for Bangladesh cricket. You have to have a positive approach if you want to achieve anything. We are just thinking of achieving something. If we are sincere, it will come in time," he said.

His views contradicted what chief selectors Faruque Ahmed said only a couple of days back. Faruque was all for a batting paradise for the two Tests.

The wet spell means both teams will continue to train at the Savar-based BKSP.