South Africa's Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Smashes 61-Year Record With Debut Test Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorious Achieves Historic Milestone: Youngest South African to Score Century on Test Debut in 61 Years

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a prodigious talent in the realm of cricket, has etched his name into South African cricketing lore. On Saturday, he became the youngest South African ever to achieve a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

The 19-year-old's remarkable feat occurred during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. He shattered a 61-year-old record previously held by the esteemed Graeme Pollock.

Arriving at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3, Pretorious exhibited remarkable composure and a daring approach. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 off a mere 141 deliveries. His innings, characterized by seven boundaries and four towering sixes, demonstrated an impressive strike rate of 90.78. He single-handedly stabilized a relatively inexperienced Proteas team.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock's long-standing record, established in 1964 when the legendary left-hander scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorious, at the young age of 19 years and 93 days, now proudly holds the title of the youngest centurion for South Africa in Test cricket.

He further solidified his performance by forging a crucial 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket with fellow debutant Dewald Brevis. Brevis contributed an explosive 51 off 41 balls, including three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious had been on the verge of national recognition following an exceptional domestic season. He amassed 436 runs in five matches during the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, boasting an impressive average of 72.66, which included three centuries. He also showcased his talent in the SA20 league earlier this year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

At tea, South Africa's score stood at 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) firmly in control.