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NEW DELHI: After a significant hiatus from international cricket, all eyes are on Virat Kohli as he prepares for his return in the ODI format against a familiar rival, Australia.

The batting legend has a sensational record on Australian soil, having amassed 1,327 runs in 29 ODIs at an impressive average of 51.03, featuring five unforgettable centuries. In Australia the 'Chase Master' has laced with some of his most memorable and impactful knocks, often turning improbable chases into routine victories.

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1. 133 not out vs Sri Lanka in 2012

The undisputed number one knock is the one that launched Kohli's legacy as the ‘Chase Master.’ India required a seemingly impossible chase of 321 in under 40 overs to secure a bonus point and stay in the 2012 CB Series. Kohli tore apart the Sri Lankan attack, particularly the world-class Lasith Malinga, with an aggressive, flawless display of power hitting and intelligent placement. This innings was a statement, redefining what was possible in a 50-over pursuit.

  • Score: 133 runs

  • Balls Faced: 86

  • Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart

  • Result: India won by 7 wickets (with 80 balls remaining)

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2. 106 vs Australia in 2016

Just three days after his Melbourne hundred in the 2016 series, Kohli delivered an even more fluent innings in Canberra. Chasing a mammoth 349, he combined sublime strokeplay with a furious run rate, sharing a massive partnership with Shikhar Dhawan. His aggressive control put Australia’s bowlers on the back foot. Unfortunately, a sudden middle-order collapse meant his magnificent effort ended in a heartbreaking loss, yet it remains an epitome of chasing excellence.

  • Score: 106 runs

  • Balls Faced: 92

  • Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra

  • Result: Australia won by 25 runs

3. 107 vs Pakistan in 2015

In India’s high-stakes opening match of the 2015 World Cup, the atmosphere in Adelaide Oval was electric. Against a fiery Pakistan attack, Kohli walked in early and played the perfect anchoring role. He skillfully negated the initial pace threat and built crucial partnerships, rotating the strike masterfully to ensure India posted a commanding total on the board. This innings was defined by composure under extreme pressure, setting the tone for India's campaign.

  • Score: 107 runs

  • Balls Faced: 126

  • Venue: Adelaide Oval

  • Result: India won by 76 runs

4. 117 vs Australia in 2016

During the 2016 ODI series, where India found themselves under pressure, Kohli produced a textbook hundred at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. He showcased the technical purity of his game, blending elegant drives with quick singles to maintain momentum. Though India ultimately fell short in defending their total of 295, Kohli's masterful 117 stood out as a beacon of class and reliability on a pitch that offered good pace and bounce.

  • Score: 117 runs

  • Balls Faced: 117

  • Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground

  • Result: Australia won by 3 wickets

5. 104 vs Australia in 2019

In the 2019 ODI series, Kohli was once again instrumental in a tough chase. Responding to Australia's target of 299, Kohli dropped anchor, manipulating the field and picking his moments to attack with clinical precision. His partnership with MS Dhoni was the backbone of the innings, reminding the world of his supreme control during a run-chase. His dismissal came right before the finish line, but the victory was essentially secured.

  • Score: 104 runs

  • Balls Faced: 112

  • Venue: Adelaide Oval

  • Result: India won by 6 wickets