Australia`s World Cup loss to New Zealand was disappointing but no wake-up call, according to captain Michael Clarke, who said his team remains full of confidence despite the frustrating start to their campaign.
Saturday`s defeat in Wellington has left Australia fourth in Pool A, after an opening win over England and a match washed out against Bangladesh.
The co-hosts` tournament has also been affected by injuries, with Clarke`s recovery from hamstring surgery overshadowing the team`s preparations and fast-bowling all-rounder James Faulkner sidelined with a side strain.
Paceman Pat Cummins will miss the team`s match against Afghanistan in Perth on Wednesday with another side strain, while media reports of tension between Clarke and coach Darren Lehmann have added additional distractions.
Australia`s batsmen were skittled for 151 runs in the much-hyped clash against in-form New Zealand before paceman Mitchell Starc took six wickets to turn what could have been a thrashing into a nerve-jangling one-wicket loss.
Asked whether the defeat to their highly-fancied neighbours was a wake-up call, Clarke on Tuesday told reporters in Perth: “I`ll say, no, I don`t think so.
“I think we got beaten by a very good team. Obviously, it`s always tough to beat New Zealand in their own backward.
“It`s always tough to compete against New Zealand no matter where they play, and they`re playing really good cricket at the moment.
