Bangladesh aim to keep up winning run

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Mar 8 (Reuters) Buoyed by a stunning two-wicket victory over New Zealand, Bangladesh will be confident of finishing their World Cup preparations undefeated when they face Scotland in a warm-up match today.

The sub-continent team beat the Kiwis thanks to a stunning all round display by tail-ender Mashrafe Mortaza, who took four wickets before plundering three sixes in a whirlwind 30 from 14 balls to overhaul New Zealand's total of 226.

Along with Bangladesh, Zimbabwe will be the only other recognised team in action today as the six minor nations in the tournament temporarily take centre stage.

Zimbabwe face tournament debutants Bermuda in St Vincent after both sides were beaten heavily but showed some fleeting promise against Australia and England respectively.

CULT STATUS All eyes will be on burly Bermudan spinner Dwayne Leverock, who has almost achieved cult status here after taking two for 32 against England despite his 19-stone frame.

Ireland, also playing in their first World Cup, will come up against Canada in Trinidad while 2003 semi-finalists Kenya should be able to come out on top against the Netherlands in Jamaica.

Ireland, who had South Africa in all sorts of trouble before their challenge eventually petered out on Monday, and Canada will both be hoping to justify the presence of a record six non-test playing nations at this year's cricketing extravaganza.

''While we have the opportunity to qualify for the World Cup and to play in it we will do so,'' Canada coach Andy Pick told Reuters.

''I think some people are going to be surprised by the so-called minnows this time.

''The average scores of the associate teams are going up every time they play a full member and we're batting for longer and occupying the crease for more overs.

''Our performances are improving all the time and I think we'll see a marked improvement this time compared to the last World Cup.'' REUTERS DH HT1510