DHAKA, March 5: The Bangladesh cricket team returned home on Wednesday to a low-key reception amid tight security after their dismal performance at the World Cup.

“The failure of the batting side is responsible for our performance,” captain Khaled Mashud told reporters at Dhaka’s Zia International Airport.

There was a heavy police presence as officials of the Bangladesh Cricket Board welcomed members of the team, many of whom were gloomy faced.

The team and its officials are to face an inquiry into Bangladesh’s performance, which the media here said had brought “shame” on the country.

The team had at least hoped for wins over Kenya and minnows Canada, but lost to both.

Kenya beat Bangladesh by 32 runs, while Canada surprised them with a 60-run victory. It would have been six losses for Bangladesh, but rains saved them in the match against the West Indies.

Bangladesh got Test status in 2000. Since then it has lost 15 of their 16 Tests with a draw against Zimbabwe in 2002 thanks to rain.—AFP