``The weather is not favourable at the moment. We need more sunny skies in order to dry the pitches. Moreover, the outfield is also very wet. If the environmental factors do not improve, the wicket is going to be slower than the Coca-Cola Cup'', said Russell, the South Africa based expert, while talking to the Daily Star at his hotel yesterday.
``The rain over the last couple of days has jeopardised preparations to a great extent. As far as the readiness of the outfield is concerned, we are now a couple weeks behind schedule,'' feared Russell.
Russell, who is also the in charge of the three practice venues, said they were also not in shape.
``The run-up area and the outfield are still soggy and not yet ready,'' claimed Russell.
England and Zimbabwe, the two of the nine participants of the Wills International Cup who arrived yesterday, were scheduled to practice at the Dhanmondi Cricket Stadium and Sultana Kamal Women's Sports Complex this morning.
But England coach David Lloyd, said that Asif Iqbal, the event manager, has advised them to stay at their hotel in the morning.
``Asif told me to stay at our hotel in the morning. But he assured that we will be able to practice at the National Stadium in the evening,'' said Lloyd.
Meanwhile, no BCB official could confirm about today's practice schedule of the two teams.