Not many fans due in Nelson

Sports Reporter from Nelson

The Bangladesh cricket team has received a warm reception from the Bangladeshi expatriates since their arrival in Australia. In Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, virtually everywhere; the Tigers saw webs of red and green.

Their arrival stirred all the local Bangladeshi fans and they not only poured into the stadiums, but also visited team hotels to meet their favourite cricketers for pictures and autographs.

However, Nelson provided a different experience. Not a single supporter came to meet the Tigers, perhaps a welcome retreat for the team, who have been swarmed lately. But the apparent lack of a Bengal community in the city means that it will be unlikely for the Tigers to receive the support at the Saxton Oval when they take on Scotland, if the supporters from other cities do not make the trip.

The large contingent of the Bangladesh media has been the sole source which is making the Tigers feel at ease, over 7000km from home.

Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan however welcomed the serene environment, saying that he is not only enjoying the calm and quiet city, but also the overall atmosphere.