Australia failed to deal with nerves during its loss to the Kiwis, says Johnson.
Australia’s mega batting collapse during its World Cup loss to New Zealand was a case of stage fright, says fast bowler Mitchell Johnson.
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New Zealand ravaged through Australia’s batting lineup to leave the visitors all out for 151 before holding on to a nervy one-wicket win at Eden Park on Saturday.
Incredibly, Australia lost 8-26 in a dramatic mid-order collapse, with captain Michael Clarke suggesting the team did not train hard enough in the lead up to the game.
Johnson disagreed, saying his side struggled to deal with the big occasion.
“I think we trained really well, to be honest,” Johnson is quoted as saying by Reuters.
“I just think we were probably a little bit nervous through that middle period.
“We trained and we knew what to expect. We knew the ball was going to swing there.
“We knew what to expect – we just didn’t play our game when we got out there in the middle.
“I think the moment probably got a bit big for us.”
It’s doubtful that Australia’s loss to the Black Caps will have any effect on its chances of progressing past the group stage, however it is now likely they will face a strong side in the quarter-finals.
Australia faces World Cup minnows Afghanistan on Wednesday at 6.30am (GMT).
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