Australian wildcards clinch surprise doubles title

Rinky Hijikata and Jason Kubler had never played together before the Australian Open

Australian wildcards Rinky Hijikata and Jason Kubler claimed a stunning victory over Hugo Nys and Jan Zielinski to win the men's doubles title at the Australian Open.

The two, who had not played together before this year's major, beat seven top-20 ranked pairs to make the final.

"I don't know what to say - it's a pleasant surprise," said Kubler.

Hijikata and Kubler overwhelmed their opponents, who are doubles specialists but were appearing in a Grand Slam final for the first time.

They previously beat top seeds Neal Skupski of Great Britain and the Netherlands' Wesley Koolhof in the quarter-finals.

They succeed compatriots Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis as doubles champions in Melbourne.

"I wasn't sure if I was going to play when Rinky asked me," Kubler said. "Two weeks later, we've got the trophy."

Hijikata added: "It's been ridiculous. I've never experienced anything like this.

"Kubs, I'm so glad you said yes to playing with me."

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