Teenage Star Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History, Breaks 61-Year-Old Record With Debut Test Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorious: Teenage Sensation Shatters Record, Becomes Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

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

The 19-year-old reached this incredible milestone during the first Test match against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. In doing so, he eclipsed 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 composure and a fearless attitude. He remained unbeaten on 128 runs from just 141 balls by the end of the second session. His innings included seven boundaries and four sixes, achieving a striking strike rate of 90.78. His efforts significantly stabilized the Proteas side.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s milestone, set in 1964 when Pollock scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorious, at 19 years and 93 days, now holds the record as the youngest South African to score a Test century.

He also forged a crucial 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket with fellow debutant Dewald Brevis. Brevis contributed an explosive 51 runs off 41 deliveries, including three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious had been on the verge of national selection after a remarkable 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 shone in the SA20 league earlier this year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

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