The 22-day break after an absorbing England tour was really refreshing for the players.

"We fully enjoyed the break all the way because previously we had allowed for short time to enjoy the break. It will help us to make a fresh start for the challenging Sri Lanka tour," said batting sensation Mohammad Ashraful, who was understandably chirpy along with teammates on the first day of training at the Army Stadium.

Only eleven players reported to coach Dav Whatmore. Captain Habibul Bashar only returned from United States earlier in the morning and wicketkeeper Khaled Mashud was allowed to enjoy a few more days break. The other ten are touring England with the Bangladesh A team.

For the first time Bangladesh are going to play one-day series before the Test matches. They will also be tested by the ICC's new one-day rules.

The fixture definitely offers some relief to Habibul Bashar men as many thought it could have been better if Bangladesh had played some one-day cricket first in England.

Whatmore, however, was excited at the prospect of playing under the new regulations.

"I don't think the new additions will be a burden for Bangladesh rather it might be help us. Whether it is an advantage or disadvantage doesn't matter we have to accept it.

"We have to get used to the new rules as best as possible -- super-subs and two phases of the field restriction. I'm glad that Bangladesh is going to play under the new rules after the teams (Sri Lanka, India and West Indies) try it out in the triangular series in Colombo," said the Australian.

The 51-year-old shrewd tactician also welcomed the Board's initiative to provide a bowling expert ahead of the tour.

"We had batting and fielding coaches in my time earlier and trainer Stuart (Karppinen) has done good job helping the bowlers but we need somebody who is dedicated to giving full time to our bowlers," he said adding that he had no preferences.

The Board took the initiative especially after the England tour where the bowlers struggled.

But pacemen Mashrafee-Bin-Mortuza, Tapash Baisya believed that there was hardly any scope to bring about dramatic changes. If anything he might be able to fine-tune certain aspects.

"I've experienced taking part in a clinic under the supervision of West Indies great Andy Roberts. Although there is nothing else to know from him I still think he can still assist the young players," said the Narail tearaway, who was satisfied with his bowling in England.

His new-ball partner Tapash echoed similar sentiments.

"At my age there are hardly any scope to change my action. At best what he can do is correct minor faults. I think Karppinen is doing an excellent job for us," said the right-arm paceman.

But young Nazmul Hossain welcomed the chance to work under a specialist bowling coach.

"He will help us to deal with small problems like how to bowl to a left-hander. I think we can get valuable tips from him (Roberts)."

Meanwhile, Whatmore had his hands full running the camp as physio Paul Close and Karppinen were given permission to fulfil their family commitments.