Bangladesh became the 10th fully-fledged Test-playing nation in 2000, but has lost 10 of 11 Tests with one draw and won only three limited-overs internationals.

Chappell was replaced by former Pakistan Test player Moshin Kamal last week, who became Bangladesh's fourth coach in five years.

"It's domestic first-class cricket that makes players mentally strong and prepares them for test cricket," said Chappell.

"But Bangladesh's domestic cricket is very weak.

"In Bangladesh, it's a huge step from local to international cricket. When the players get to test cricket, they struggle. They are outclassed and out of depth.

"Bangladesh is the Number 10 Test nation in international cricket, but there is a huge gap between Number nine and Number 10.

"It's not the players' fault, it's the system. To close the gap, Bangladesh needs to develop quality first-class cricket at home."

Chappell admitted that he was disappointed to be sacked one year into a two-year contract.

"My contract was supposed to run until the 2003 World Cup. It's difficult to achieve much in one year," he said.

"Bowling, fielding and running between wickets has improved.

"Batsmen have a better idea about what they're trying to do, all they need is to put it into practice."

Chappell has taken a short-term coaching job with Dhaka's City Club.