The 50-year-old Australian signed a new contract at Chittagong, where he was preparing the national team for their England tour next month, thus putting to rest speculations that he might go elsewhere.

Whatmore, whose first two-year contract with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expires on April 30, has been linked with the Indian cricket team after New Zealander John Wright vacated the post.

Besides, Whatmore was also on Sri Lanka's seek-list. The famed coach led the Lankans to World Cup triumph in 1996.

Whatmore however was apparently keener to stay with the Test newcomers, whom he led to their maiden Test and one-day series victories against Zimbabwe in January this year.

Although the Board did not disclose the financial aspects of the new contract, it was gathered from reliable sources that the salary and other benefits of the inspirational coach have been almost doubled.

"Whatmore is a very good coach and under him Bangladesh team has already prospered," Board president Ali Asghar said yesterday while confirming the new deal.

"He has been a great inspiration for our national team and his association with the boys for another term will only help us progress in the future."

Whatmore however was not available for comments.