Pakistan scored a 300-plus total against the part-timers from Hong Kong in Colombo while Indian and hosts Sri Lanka were battling in what promises to be another high-scoring affair away at Dambulla last night.

Bangladesh on the other hand enjoyed their first break from cricket and training with a day trip to the outskirts of Colombo. But the Tigers, already assured of a place in the second round, know that there will be a tough time ahead. They will have to score runs, which is something Dav Whatmore's boys have found difficult on a slow and low wicket.

Bangladesh will play the first second round match against the losers of India and Sri Lanka on July 21.

Although Habibul Bashar's men won convincingly against Hong Kong but their bating was found wanting in their next match against defending champions Pakistan. This is an area which is troubling Whatmore. "The Pakistan total looked well within our reach but the application was missing," said Whatmore after Bangladesh tumbled to 181 in reply to Pakistan's 257-7.

"We will have to improve a lot if we stand any chance to make an impression on the big three," he added.

Opener Javed Omar has been the only success story for Bangladesh in the first phase. The doughty right-hander scored back-to-back half centuries after coming back from injury.

"Only Javed (Omar) has done his job but we need all the other batsman to follow his example in the next round," said Whatmore.