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When Virat Kohli's 'Sensational' 82* Demolished Australia In The 2016 T20 World Cup

Kohli remained unbeaten at 82 vs Australia in the T20 WC 2016 [X] Kohli remained unbeaten at 82 vs Australia in the T20 WC 2016 [X]

March 27, 2016, remains etched in cricketing history as the day Indian stalwart, Virat Kohli produced one of the most remarkable T20I innings, steering India into the ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals in a do-or-die clash against Australia.

On a tension-filled evening in Mohali, Kohli's unbeaten gem of 82 runs from just 51 deliveries turned the game in India's favour, showcasing a performance that fans would talk about for generations.

OTD in 2016, Kohli's 82* vs Australia guided India to T20 WC 2016 semis

After electing to bat, Australia put up a challenging score on the board, thanks to their opening duo's fireworks and valuable contributions down the order.

Despite an early scare with a brisk 54-run opening stand, India clawed back into the game with vital breakthroughs from Ashish Nehra, Hardik Pandya, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuvraj Singh, and Jasprit Bumrah. However, the Aussies managed to muster a competitive total of 160/6.

In response, India found themselves in dire straits at 49/3, staring down the barrel. But Virat Kohli, known for thriving under pressure, played a knock for the ages and broke several records.

He first stitched a vital 45-run stand with Yuvraj Singh and followed it up with a crucial 67-run partnership with MS Dhoni, who played a supportive role with an 18 not out.

With India needing 47 runs from the final four overs, the odds were stacked against them. Yet, Kohli launched a blistering assault on James Faulkner and Nathan Coulter-Nile, fetching 35 runs in just two overs, making the improbable seem possible.


Kohli's innings was filled with 9 boundaries and 2 sixes, taking the Australian bowlers to the cleaners. His unbeaten 82 off 51 balls not only highlighted his batting brilliance but also his ability to single-handedly tilt the game in India's favour.

Reflecting on his innings after being named the ‘Player of the Match’, Kohli, albeit with a touch of emotion, had ranked it as possibly his finest, especially given the high stakes against a formidable Australian team and in front of the home crowd.