Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Breaks 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 has written his name into South African cricket history, achieving the title of the youngest South African to score a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century (Pic credit: CSA)

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, Pretorius 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 an impressive strike rate of 90.78, helping to stabilize a new-look Proteas side facing early adversity.

The young right-hander eclipsed Pollock's long-standing milestone, which was set in 1964 when Pollock scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorius, at just 19 years and 93 days, now holds the record as 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.

Pretorius had been on the verge 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 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 reached 248 for 6, with Pretorius (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) holding firm.