Teenage Sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorious Smashes 61-Year Record With Debut Test Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History as Youngest South African to Score Test Century on Debut

In a stunning display of talent and composure, Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a 19-year-old batting prodigy, has etched his name into the annals of South African cricket. He achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the youngest South African ever to score a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

This extraordinary achievement unfolded during the first Test match against Zimbabwe at the prestigious Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Pretorious shattered a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Arriving at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3, Pretorious exhibited remarkable resilience and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 runs off just 141 deliveries. His dynamic innings included seven boundaries and four towering sixes, showcasing a remarkable strike rate of 90.78. This helped stabilize the Proteas side.

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

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, embellished with three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious had been on the cusp of national selection following an exceptional domestic season. During the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, he amassed 436 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 72.66, including three centuries. He also made a significant impact in the SA20 league earlier this year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

At the tea interval, South Africa reached a score of 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) firmly in control.