Bangladesh potential semifinalists: Ambrose

Sir Curtly Elconn Lynwall Ambrose formed one of the deadliest bowling pairs with Courtney Walsh, presently Bangladesh's bowling coach. During the Tigers' game against the West Indies at Taunton on Monday, the Caribbean legendary fast bowler from Antigua spoke to Prothom Alo about this game, Bangladesh’s chances of reaching the semifinals and present day fast bowlers.

Prothom Alo: Who can reach semi-finals? 
Ambrose: I’m hoping that West Indies is one of those four teams, obviously. They are not playing so well as I expected them to play at this moment. It’s gonna be tough for them. But, we have a few more games ahead and I’m hoping they will make it to semifinals.

Prothom Alo: Do you follow Bangladesh cricket?

Ambrose: Well, I follow cricket in general. I’m aware that Bangladesh has beaten us 7 out of last 9 matches. So it’s not going to be easy. Bangladesh playing some good cricket, especially in ODI format. So, I’m hoping to see a good game today. Both teams need to win this game, so I hope it’s going to be a competitive game.

Prothom Alo: Do you think Bangladesh is potential semifinalist?
Ambrose: Yes, they have chance but they must win. It’s not going to be easy. Because, Australia, New Zealand, India and England are top four teams at this moment.

Prothom Alo: Which Bangladeshi bowler impressed you the most?
Ambrose: I don’t like to look at one or two players. I generally look at the team. Because, in my opinion, one or two players can’t win a game for any team. The whole team needs to be involved.

Prothom Alo: Your partner Walsh is now Bangladesh’s bowling coach. What do you expect from him to deliver for Bangladesh?
Ambrose: Well he has been there for quite some time now. He was a great fast bowler, a legend. I believe the wealth of knowledge he possessed can only go well for Bangladeshi bowlers. I think the bowlers have improved since he went there. And they should always try to use his knowledge. His experience can make Bangladesh bowlers only better.

Prothom Alo: We don’t see quality fast bowlers like Walsh or you. How do you feel about it? Why there is a lack of fast bowlers in present times?
Ambrose: No there are still some quality fast bowlers around the world. Every team has at least two quality good bowlers. So fast bowlers are still there.

Prothom Alo: Mitchel Starc or one or two bowlers like him………
Ambrose: You have to understand that not all bowlers are going to bowl at 90mph. That’s impossible. And, bowling 90mph not always going to make you a great. If you can do that (bowling 90mph) it will make batsmen cautious. You need accuracy, pitching in right areas, do something with the bowl and take wicket. Bowling at 90mph is good because it make batsmen worry a little bit. But if you can’t bowl in the right areas, it’s simply waste of time. But accuracy is the key.

*The interview has been transcribed by Galib Ashraf.