Mashrafe believes pacers will do well

Bangladesh pacers can put behind the hard time against Sri Lanka and shine against Scotland, says skipper Mashrafe bin Mortaza.

He says he would place his faith in them ahead of their Pool A clash against Scotland on Thursday.

Vice-captain Shakib Al Hasan said on Tuesday that the pacers must take more responsibility in the World Cup because of pitches in Australia and New Zealand usually helping them rather than spin.

Mashrafe agreed with Shakib.

"Everybody expects pacers to do well on these pitches. Definitely, pacers have more responsibility than spinners in (giving) good starts."

Bangladesh pace trio of Mashrafe, Rubel Hossain and Taskin Ahmed conceded 197 runs in 29 overs taking just one wicket between themselves in their 92-run defeat against Sri Lanka.

Mashrafe, however, believes the pacers will turn around against Scotland.

"Despite a match not going their way, the pacers will feel good about the Nelson wicket. They will do well here." 

The Tigers will take on the Scots at the Saxton Oval in Nelson at 4am Bangladesh time.

Mashrafe was the most economic of the Bangladesh bowlers against Sri Lanka conceding 53 runs in his 10 overs.

Rubel returned 1 for 62 in 9 overs while Taskin was the most expensive with 82 runs.

But they were also let down by dropped catches and sloppy fielding, an area Bangladesh need to tighten up to beat Scotland.

Mashrafe, however, thinks much will depend on Shakib for success in spin.

The southpaw is Bangladesh's primary weapon in the spin attack, and Mashrafe thinks his presence motivates the team.

"Shakib is a world-class spinner. If given the chance, whoever will play with him, I think, will do well." 

The captain is reluctant to consider whether the track will assist spin or not.

"I think wicket is not a factor (to bowl well). It will mainly depend on who plays spin or pace how well."