Teenage Star Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History, Shatters 61-Year Record With Debut Test Century for South Africa

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Shatters Record to Become Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

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

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

Pretorious arrived at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position 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 boundaries and four sixes, achieving a strike rate of 90.78. Pretorious's performance stabilized a new-look Proteas team that was in early trouble.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock's long-standing record, 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 old, now holds the title of 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 has been on the cusp of national recognition following an outstanding domestic season. In the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, he amassed 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.