Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Shatters 61-Year Record, Youngest South African to Score Test Century on Debut

Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History, Becomes Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a teenage batting prodigy, has written his name into South African cricket folklore. On Saturday, he became the youngest South African cricketer to achieve a Test century on debut.

The 19-year-old's remarkable feat occurred during the first Test match against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. He eclipsed 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 smashed an unbeaten 128 off just 141 deliveries. His innings included seven boundaries and four towering sixes, achieving a striking strike rate of 90.78. His efforts significantly stabilized a new-look Proteas side facing early challenges.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s 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 the age of 19 years and 93 days, now holds the record as 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. In 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 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.