Pretorious Shatters 61-Year Record, Youngest South African to Smash Test Century on Debut

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a teenage batting prodigy, has etched his name into South African cricket history. 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 accomplished 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.

Arriving at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3, Pretorious displayed remarkable composure and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 runs off just 141 deliveries. His innings included seven boundaries and four sixes, achieved at an impressive strike rate of 90.78. This contribution was instrumental in stabilizing a relatively inexperienced Proteas side facing early adversity.

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

He also forged a crucial 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 had been on the cusp of national selection following an outstanding domestic season. He amassed 436 runs in five matches during the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series at an 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 tea, South Africa had reached 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) at the crease.