Pretorius Shatters 61-Year Record, Becomes Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a teenage batting prodigy, has etched his name in South African cricket history. On Saturday, he became the youngest South African ever to score a Test century on debut.

The 19-year-old achieved this remarkable feat during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. In doing so, he broke a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Coming to the crease with South Africa struggling at 23 for 3, Pretorious displayed remarkable composure and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had smashed an unbeaten 128 off just 141 deliveries. His innings included seven fours and four sixes, with a striking strike rate of 90.78. This helped stabilize a new-look Proteas side that had been in early trouble.

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

He also formed 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.

Pretorius had been on the verge of national selection after an outstanding domestic season. During the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, he scored 436 runs in five matches at an average of 72.66, including three centuries. He also impressed in the SA20 league earlier in the year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

At tea, South Africa reached 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) at the crease.