Now in Dhaka as head coach of Malaysia for a series against Bangladesh HP and Under-23 teams, Whatmore reflected on his time with Bangladesh and shared his thoughts on the Tigers' progress, the rise of their fast bowlers, and the challenge awaiting them in Australia.
"I always enjoy coming back to Bangladesh," Whatmore said to Cricfrenzy.
"I spent four years here with the national team and later worked with Barishal in the BPL. I have wonderful memories, so it's always special to return."
Whatmore was in charge when Bangladesh toured Australia for their maiden Test series in 2003, just three years after gaining Test status. Although Bangladesh lost both matches heavily, he believes the tour laid the foundation for future growth.
"Bangladesh are definitely playing much better cricket now. I still remember that 2003 tour. It was like walking through fire for us, but it was an incredible learning experience."
"It was our first Test series in Australia and we really enjoyed the tour. We saw firsthand how strong Australia were. Even though we didn't perform well there, the experience helped us ahead of the Pakistan tour. Bangladesh cricket has certainly moved forward since then."
Whatmore praised the transformation of Bangladesh's pace-bowling resources compared to the days when Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Syed Rasel and Tapash Baisya led the attack.
"Honestly, Nahid Rana is an excellent fast bowler. He has genuine pace and everyone is talking about him now," Whatmore said. “But this improvement isn't limited to Bangladesh. Across the subcontinent, we've seen quality fast bowlers emerge. Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka all have strong pace attacks now, while Pakistan have always produced quality quicks."
Australia's pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will pose one of Bangladesh's toughest tests, according to Whatmore.
"Winning a Test match in Australia is never easy. Hazlewood, Starc and Cummins form an outstanding pace attack. I also heard Michael Neser is injured, but they still have someone like Scott Boland, who can be just as dangerous."
"You won't get much breathing space against that bowling attack. I think the first Test will be extremely important for Bangladesh. If they can compete well and stay in the contest, they'll gain valuable confidence heading into the second Test."
Asked what Bangladesh need to succeed in Australia, Whatmore emphasised mindset as much as skill.
"I think they need to stay mentally positive and play aggressive cricket," he said. "If Australia attack you, you have to respond in the same way."
"In terms of ability, Bangladesh are good enough. The biggest difference is the conditions. Australia is completely different. The more time you spend preparing there, the easier it becomes to adapt. As far as I know, they have already started with a practice match, and that's very important."
Whatmore is also looking forward to Malaysia's matches against Bangladesh HP, describing the series as a valuable opportunity regardless of the results.
"I don't know much about the Bangladesh HP team, but they are certainly strong," he said.
"The main reason we're here is to play quality opposition. If they beat us comfortably, it will still be a great learning experience. If we perform well, that's also a big achievement. It's a win-win situation for us."