DHAKA: Australian High Commissioner Greg Wilcock on Monday said “cricket remains essential to our people-to-people ties – ties we saw renewed when Bangladesh hosted the ICC T20 World Cup last year”.

He mentioned Australia’s support in Bangladesh’s achievement of test status in 2000 and a number of Australian professionals who are continuing working with the Bangladesh squad.

He also cited the ICC World Cup 2015, scheduled to be played in Australia and New Zealand where 13 nations will join together with Australia, which commences on February 14 in Melbourne and Christchurch.

He further said, “The tournament will be the biggest sporting event in the world in 2015.”

He also said, “Australia is proud to welcome the Bangladesh cricket team and its fans. The World Cup is an opportunity to celebrate our enduring relationship, and to celebrate our thriving trade, family and education links.”

Mentioning the Pool A match between Australian and Bangladesh teams at the Gabba in Brisbane on February21 he added, “Although my loyalty to the Bangladesh team might lapse that day, I otherwise look forward to seeing the Tigers perform strongly.”

BDST: 1635 HRS, FEB 09, 2015