The national cricket team, which arrived in Belfast on Monday to begin their six-week tour of the British isles, was greeted by the characteristic chilling weather.

With the weatherman forecasting more gloomy days ahead, Bangladesh's first match against the host nation, a limited-over affair, was a grim prospect. This was disclosed by the Bangladesh tour manager, Ahmed Sajjadul Alam, in a faxed message to the BCB office yesterday. Bangladesh is touring the British isles as part of their preparation for the 1999 World Cup, to be held in England.

The 17-member Bangladesh team was accorded a cordial welcome at the airport by local cricket officials. As part of the media hype, a local TV network interviewed several members of the national team, said Sajjad.

The team underwent a light practice session at the Warring Town Cricket Club ground, where the first match will be held today.

Akram and his boys will play four one-day matches and a two-day encounter against Ireland. Besides, they will also feature in a limited-over match against a provincial team during their 12-day stay in Ireland.

The Bangladesh team will then fly to England, where they will take part in a series of exhibition matches against different selections, including three counties, Leicestershire, Warwickshire and Gloucestershire.

After a 16-day tour of England, Bangladesh will then visit Scotland to play six matches including a three-match one-day series (Cairn Trophy) against the hosts. Bangladesh and Scotland have been placed in the same World Cup group.