Afghanistan pledge to learn from Australia World Cup drubbing
Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib said his side would learn from their seven-wicket humbling by Australia on Saturday as they seek to regroup for the rest of their World Cup campaign.
The rank outsiders at the tournament in England and Wales had a terrible start against the defending champions in Bristol, slumping to five for two, with both openers out for nought.
They fought back bravely, with 43 from Rahmat Shah and 51 from Najibullah Zadran, but were still dismissed for 207 with more than 11 overs to spare.
Australia romped to victory in the 35th over of their innings, David Warner top-scoring with 89 not out.
Naib said his side did not get the momentum they needed at the start of the innings because they lost early wickets, saying they could not afford to cede the initiative against strong sides.
"Definitely, we can play against these kind of teams, so you should take positive things from them," he said.
"Obviously, we have a tough match upcoming. Every team, especially for us, is