Teenage Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History, Breaks 61-Year Record With Debut Test Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorious: Teenage Sensation Breaks 61-Year-Old Record with Debut Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a prodigious talent in South African cricket, has etched his name into the record books. On Saturday, he became the youngest South African to achieve a Test century on debut, at the tender age of 19. This remarkable feat occurred during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Pretorious shattered a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Coming to the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3, Pretorious demonstrated remarkable composure and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 off just 141 deliveries. His innings, punctuated by seven fours and four sixes, showcased a striking rate of 90.78 and played a crucial role in stabilizing the Proteas side.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s milestone, which was set in 1964 when Pollock scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorious, at 19 years and 93 days, has now become the youngest centurion for South Africa in Test cricket history.

He also forged a vital 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket with fellow debutant Dewald Brevis, who contributed an explosive 51 off 41 balls, including three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious's impressive form in the domestic circuit had been signaling his readiness for the national stage. He amassed 436 runs in five matches during the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, maintaining an average of 72.66, and scoring three centuries. He also shone in the SA20 league earlier this year, accumulating 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

At tea, South Africa reached 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) holding firm.