Afghanistan skipper Nabi blames losing early wickets for loss

Canberra, Feb 18: Afghanistan skipper Mohammad Nabi rued losing too many wickets upfront as the main cause for their loss against Bangladesh in a Pool A World Cup encounter here Wednesday.

After restricting Bangladesh to 267 in their fifty overs, Afghanistan suffered a devastating start to their run chase losing their first three wickets with only 3 runs on the scoreboard.

The innings failed to take-off thereafter and they were bowled out for a paltry 162 in 42.5 overs. The only bright spots in the innings were knocks from Nawroz Mangal (27), Samiullah Shenwari (42) and Nabi (44).

"We lost too many wickets early, but Nawroz and Sami batted well. Not a good start in the World Cup," said Nabi at the post match presentation ceremony.

The 30-year-old credited his bowlers for their performance and also praised Bangladesh batsmen Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan.

"First 35 overs we bowled well, especially fast bowlers but Mushfiqur and Shakib played very well and took the score to 260. We hope to play well in the next match," he said.