Former Pakistan skipper Asif Iqbal is a man on the move. He never leaves a file or a note pending even as his mobile phone keeps ringing and has the poise to answer each call. No doubt he has been running the show so successfully in Sharjah. Now, Asif has a role to play in Dhaka too, helping the ICC conduct this tournament.

One is amazed at his insistence on checking out every minute detail himself. ``This is a big tournament. We cannot afford to take any chances,'' says the man with as much elan and grace as he wielded his willow.

His administrative qualities, however, completely overshadow the cricketer he was. Remember the man was involved in an epic 190-run match-saving ninth-wicket partnership with Intikhab Alam against England in 1967. ``Much water has flown down the Thames since,'' Asif says with a smile.

Gavaskar stamp

The Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina released a commemorative six-taka stamp on cricket during abrief and simple opening ceremony on Day One of the tournament.

The stamp has Sunil Gavaskar playing his favourite leg-glance on it. Known for her interest in cricket, Hasina hoped that the ICC would help Dhaka become a major cricketing centre in the world. For this she pledged full support from her government, including a special sports package in the form of funds. The newly-renovated flood-light system, imposing new electronic scoreboard (the two cost the cricket board close to Taka two crores), elegant stands, a sporting pitch, improved press box and the media centre indeed reflect the improvement in the stadium. However, journalists covering the tournament have to cope with two organising committees. One is under the ICC and the other one under the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Approach one and they ask you to go to the other. The result: chaos.

Waiting for the `Prince'

The city is suffering from cricket fever. For somebody from India, inane questions from locals become rather irritating.Questions range from why did Sachin Tendulkar marry so early, or why is Sunil Gavaskar's son, Rohan, not in the team.

Now, how are you supposed to answer these? They then tell you that Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid are their favourite Indian players but the one they like the most is ``our own Bengali babu, ``Shaurab Ganguly.'' People here want to have an India-Pakistan final on November 1. You tell them it's not possible since they are in the same pool and they are disappointed. ``In that case, at least India should play in the final.''Against whom? ``Sri Lanka,'' says another.