'Can't recall the last time I visited Bangladesh'

West Indies fast-bowling legend Sir Curtly Ambrose joined the commentary panel of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League and immediately added value to the broadcasting team with his wealth of knowledge yesterday.

Ambrose thought it was his first time in Bangladesh until this reporter reminded the imposing pacer that he had actually played here in 1999 when the West Indies toured for a two-match ODI series.

Although the West Indies won the series convincingly, Ambrose was surprisingly unable to pick up a wicket on the tour, making it one to forget on a personal note.

"Well yeah, I thought this was my first time here in Bangladesh. I couldn't even recall that series but someone showed me the scorecard. I will try to remember my previous visit as I spend more time in Bangladesh," Ambrose told The Daily Star yesterday.

The 59-year-old was part of a golden generation of West Indies pacers and his partnership with Caribbean legend Courtney Walsh is something cricket lovers still cherish.

The paceman from Antigua was also satisfied with the improvement in pitches in Bangladesh over the years, especially as they have tended to offer assistance to seamers in recent times.

"It is very refreshing to see that pitches here are getting better. In the past, we saw slow and turning pitches. What I have seen so far is that there was a bit of grass on the surface and even bounce, which will certainly encourage pacers to develop," Ambrose said during an interview ahead of the second game between Khulna Tigers and Chattogram Challengers yesterday.