Lhuan-Dre Pretorius Smashes Century on Test Debut, Breaks 61-Year-Old South African Record

Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, the 19-year-old South African batting prodigy, has etched his name into cricketing history by scoring a stunning century on Test debut against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. With this feat, he became the youngest South African to score a Test hundred, breaking a 61-year-old record held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

🏏 A Debut to Remember

Walking in at a precarious 23/3, Pretorius showcased remarkable composure and flair:

• Reached his century in just 112 balls, the fastest by a South African on debut
• Struck 7 boundaries and 3 sixes en route to his unbeaten 120 off 134 balls*
• Shared crucial partnerships with Wiaan Mulder (32 runs) and Dewald Brevis (95 runs) to rescue South Africa from early trouble

“It’s a dream come true. Wearing the Proteas cap and scoring a hundred on debut is something I’ll cherish forever,” Pretorius said post-match.

📜 Record-Breaking Moment

At 19 years and 93 days, Pretorius surpassed Graeme Pollock, who was 19 years and 317 days old when he scored his debut ton in 1964 against Australia. He also became:

• The seventh South African to score a century on Test debut
• The fifth-youngest debut centurion in global Test history, just behind India’s Prithvi Shaw

🧢 From IPL to International Glory

Pretorius, who rose to prominence with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, had played only 7 first-class matches before his Test debut. His rapid rise reflects South Africa’s renewed focus on youth and aggressive batting.

📊 Youngest South African Test Centurions

Stay tuned for Day 2 highlights and expert reactions.