Pretorious, 19, Smashes 61-Year Record to Become Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

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

Teenage batting sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorious wrote his name in the annals of South African cricket on Saturday, achieving the distinction of becoming the youngest South African to score a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century

The 19-year-old accomplished this feat during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, surpassing 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 amassed an unbeaten 128 off just 141 deliveries. His innings included seven boundaries and four sixes, achieved at a striking strike rate of 90.78, providing stability to a new-look Proteas side that had faced early challenges.

The young right-hander eclipsed Pollock’s longstanding record, 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 title of 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 impressive average of 72.66, including three centuries. He had 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) firmly holding their ground.