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

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

Teenage batting sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorious has etched his name into South African cricket history, becoming the youngest South African to score a Test century on debut. The 19-year-old achieved this feat during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, breaking a 61-year-old record held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

Coming to the crease with South Africa reeling at 23 for 3, Pretorious displayed 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, which included seven fours and four sixes, came at a brisk strike rate of 90.78 and helped stabilize a new-look Proteas side that was in early trouble.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s long-standing milestone. Pollock set the record in 1964 when he scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorious, at just 19 years and 93 days, has now become 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 after a stellar domestic season. He scored 436 runs in five matches during the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series at an average of 72.66, including three centuries. He also impressed in the SA20 league earlier this 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) holding the fort.