Rather, the dashing right-hander said that he was eagerly looking forward to lead the Tigers at Lord's, the home of cricket, which will host the first Test from May 26-30.

"It will be a dream come true when I walk onto the hallowed turf at Lord's for the toss. I've been to England twice first as a member of the Under-19 team in 1989 and along with my club side Bangladesh Biman in 1999. But I have never played at the historic venue," said the 32-year-old yesterday, two days before he along with 19 other probables start training for the demanding tour that includes two Tests followed by a triangular one-day series also involving world champions Australia.

Bashar will not be the only one who will enjoy a Lord's experience for the first time in his career but that special moment will be cherished by the others members too.

Bangladesh had earlier been involved in two one-day events in England, the 1999 World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy last year, but on both occasions the Tigers played somewhere else other than Lord's.

"We have grown up hearing so much about Lord's, its history and tradition. I think that will be an added inspiration for us," said Bashar, who was not considered for the 1999 World Cup and missed the Champions Trophy because of injury.

After a break from cricket for nearly two months since the historic home series triumph against Zimbabwe, the Bangladesh captain said that the England tour would be a different ball game for his young side.

"Obviously, there is a great difference when you compare the strengths of both teams. Besides, it is always a big challenge for any subcontinent player to perform in English conditions," Bashar said.

The premier batsman, however, did not want to read too much in to the Test and one-day success against a depleted Zimbabwe side that was missing many of its experienced players.

"It will be foolish to expect the same kind of results what we did against Zimbabwe. But I believe that our boys have got the much-needed confidence from that series and they definitely will give their best against England."

Bashar expressed his satisfaction over the selection of the preliminary team, especially with the inclusion of some young cricketers like paceman Shahadat Hossain and left-hand opener Shahriar Nafees.

"I have faced Shahadat in the nets and he really impressed me with his pace. Besides, for a long time we were looking for a left-handed opener and I believe Shahriar Nafees has the ability to fill that role in future," he hoped.

The national camp starts at the Army Stadium in Banani tomorrow with coach Dav Whatmore, who is expected to return today after spending his holidays in Sri Lanka.