Teenage Sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History with Debut Test Century, Breaks 61-Year-Old South African Record

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a teenage batting prodigy, has made history by becoming the youngest South African to score a Test century on debut. The remarkable achievement occurred during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

At just 19 years old, Pretorious broke 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 incredible composure and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had smashed an unbeaten 128 off 141 deliveries. His innings included seven fours and four sixes, achieving a strike rate of 90.78. His performance helped to stabilize a new-look Proteas side.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s milestone, which was 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, is now the youngest centurion for South Africa in Test cricket history.

He also formed 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 has been on the cusp of national selection following an outstanding domestic season. In the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, he scored 436 runs in five matches 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.