TASKIN AHMED

Bangladesh's bowling performance against Afghanistan showed just how important pace bowling could be in this World Cup and its importance will be amplified when they play Australia in their next game at the Gabba, which is traditionally one of Australia's quickest pitches.

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza once again displayed what we know he is capable of against Afghanistan in the opening match. Rubel Hossain and young Taskin Ahmed provided their captain with ample support. However, the Aussies pose a much bigger challenge than the Afghans, boasting the likes of David Warner, Aaron Finch, Glenn Maxwell and captain Michael Clarke, who is set to play his first match of this World Cup against the Tigers.

"I am excited because the wicket will be fast. But we have to keep in mind those Australian batsmen are also good on this kind of wicket. Anything bad will be punished heavily," an excited Rubel told reporters.

Under bowling coach Heath Streak's guidance, Bangladesh's bowling attack was a disciplined unit in the opener, although the Zimbabwean played only two ODI games in Brisbane during his playing days. However, his vast experience of the Gabba will come in handy for the Tigers, as he will be able to offer valuable input.

"The conditions are fantastic in Australia for pace bowlers. You know I practised at a ground near Gabba during the Under-19 World Cup in 2012 and once I visited the Gabba and thought that I would play at this venue one day. If I get a chance and weather permits then my dream will be fulfilled on Saturday," said young paceman Taskin.

"Pace is my main strength, so it will be exciting to bowl at the Gabba. But I am learning that one cannot be successful with pace only, line and length is very important. As I earlier said I want to bowl at 150kmph and this would be the best opportunity, but I have to bowl in the right areas, otherwise what kind of fate I have to embrace, I know. I bowled quickest at 144kmph in the first match with good line and length and hope I can continue it," added the well-built pacer.

Taskin said that he has been learning a lot from the bowling of Mashrafe. "He is our inspiration in many ways. I am learning a lot from him. It is a fantastic experience to be bowling alongside him," said Taskin.

The Australian dailies wrote that Bangladesh have good reason to pray for incessant rain in order to secure a point, but in reality, from Mashrafe to Taskin, everybody is praying for sunshine come Saturday.