B'desh eye the WC as India prays for Bermuda win

Bangladesh can complete the elimination and humiliation of India and earn themselves a maiden World Cup second-round spot with victory over debutants Bermuda later on Sunday.

Bangladesh only need to avoid defeat to go through, but more than a billion Indian fans will be praying the newcomers Bermuda pull off an unlikely Group B win which could allow India to sneak through on net run rate.

"Tomorrow India is really banking on us to play well," Bermuda skipper Irvine Romaine told reporters. "It is good to have that support."

"It is good to play a part in the World Cup even though we haven't got the results right now."

Sri Lanka, the 1996 champions, have already topped the group and Bermuda have lost their first two matches heavily.

India were virtually knocked out in the first round after losing to Sri Lanka on Friday, ending with just one win from three matches.

Qualification would be huge for Bangladesh after they failed to win a game in their second World Cup campaign in 2003.

They have since beaten India, champions Australia and Sri Lanka in one-day internationals to show their progress.

Skipper Habibul Bashar hoped his young team did not put themselves under too much pressure.

"We won against India because we enjoyed that game."

"We should win but this is another international game and we should not take things lightly."

Romaine hoped his amateur side could cash in if Bangladesh slipped up.

"They are very good and young but inconsistent. Tomorrow may be an off day for them and we may catch them napping."