Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Topples 61-Year-Old Record, Becomes South Africa's Youngest Test Centurion on Debut

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

Teenage sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorious has etched his name into South African cricket history by becoming the youngest South African to score a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

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 previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Pretorious arrived at the crease with South Africa struggling at 23 for 3. Displaying remarkable composure and a fearless approach, he remained unbeaten on 128 off just 141 deliveries by the end of the second session. His innings included seven fours and four sixes, achieving a strike rate of 90.78. He helped stabilize a new-look Proteas side facing early challenges.

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 just 19 years and 93 days, now holds the record as the youngest centurion for South Africa in Test cricket.

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 had been on the cusp of national selection following 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) at the crease.