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Updated on June 16th 2025, 4:57:02 pm

The Knock That Made Virat Kohli a Chase Master: 133 vs Sri Lanka, Hobart 2012

By Harsh Chopra
Virat Kohli celebrates century vs Sri Lanka, Hobart 2012

Virat Kohli’s iconic 133 at Hobart in 2012 helped India chase 321 in 36.4 overs. A defining knock that made him India’s undisputed chase master.

Key Takeaways


  • Match: India vs Sri Lanka, CB Series 2012, Hobart

  • Target: 321 runs in 40 overs to stay alive in the tournament

  • Kohli’s Knock: 133* off 86 balls (16 fours, 2 sixes)

  • Chase Completed: In 36.4 overs at 8.75 RPO

  • Impact: Cemented Virat Kohli’s status as India’s chase master

What made Virat Kohli's Hobart knock in 2012 special?


Virat Kohli's unbeaten 133 at Hobart in 2012 is considered his breakout performance because he helped India chase down 321 in just 36.4 overs, a nearly impossible task at the time. This innings showcased his chasing prowess and established him as a global star.


Virat Kohli’s 133* at Hobart in 2012 wasn't just a match-winning knock—it was a career-defining masterclass. That day, he transformed from a promising youngster into India’s ultimate chaser on the world stage.


In the lead-up to this match, Virat Kohli was viewed as a talented batter, but hadn’t delivered a game that etched his name into cricketing folklore. That changed in Hobart, 2012. Facing a do-or-die scenario, Kohli produced a legendary chase against Sri Lanka that would define his career and launch him as India’s next big match-winner.


Sri Lanka's Dominance with the Bat


Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a daunting 320/4 in 50 overs—powered by two incredible centuries. Tillakaratne Dilshan scored 160, while Kumar Sangakkara added 105. The total was massive for that era, especially considering India had to chase it down in 40 overs to qualify for the CB Series final.


India's Aggressive Start


India came out attacking. Virender Sehwag scored 30 off 16 balls, and Sachin Tendulkar contributed 39 off 30. Their 54-run opening stand set the tone. Gautam Gambhir then anchored the chase with a 64-ball 63, stitching a crucial partnership with Kohli.


The Kohli Masterclass


Kohli walked in at No. 4 and never looked back. From the start, he dominated the bowling—especially dismantling Lasith Malinga with unmatched precision. His 133* came off just 86 balls with a strike rate of 154.65. He hit 16 fours and 2 sixes, running hard for the rest, showing not just flair but endurance and intent.


The Impossible Made Possible


India needed 321 in 40 overs. Kohli ensured it was chased down in just 36.4 overs. He turned a near-impossible task into one of India’s greatest ODI victories and announced himself as the future of Indian cricket.


Watch the innings highlights here


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