Australia’s T20 World Cup hopes under threat after shock defeat to Afghanistan

Gulbadin was the third scalp of Cummins’ hat-trick, making a golden duck in the final Afghan innings, but he quickly became his team’s hero.

Only Glenn Maxwell, whose unforgettable innings helped Australia beat Afghanistan in Mumbai in last year’s ODI World Cup, moved past 12th in the race. He made 59 from 41 balls, but fell to Gulbadin, who had already picked up the wickets of big hitters Marcus Stoinis and Tim David. Australia lost two 127s.

“This is a huge victory for us as a team and as a nation,” said Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan. “In a World Cup, beating champions (Australia are world champions at 50) is a great feeling and it’s something we’ve missed.

“This is just the beginning for us and we have every chance of qualifying for the semi-finals.

“This is so important for us and for our country. The Afghans sorely miss this victory and I am sure they are proud of us.