Teenage Pretorious Makes History, Becomes South Africa's Youngest Test Centurion on Debut, Breaking 61-Year-Old Record

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a prodigious talent, has indelibly marked his place in South African cricket history. On Saturday, he emerged as the youngest South African ever to achieve a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century

The 19-year-old accomplished this remarkable feat during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. In doing so, he surpassed a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Arriving at the crease when South Africa was struggling at 23 for 3, Pretorious demonstrated remarkable composure and a fearless approach. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 runs off just 141 deliveries. His innings included seven boundaries and four towering sixes, achieved at an impressive strike rate of 90.78. He played a crucial role in stabilizing a new-look Proteas side that was in early difficulty.

The young right-hander eclipsed Pollock's long-standing milestone. Pollock had set the record in 1964, scoring a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. Pretorious, at just 19 years and 93 days, now holds the distinction of being the youngest centurion for South Africa in Test cricket.

He also forged a vital 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket with fellow debutant Dewald Brevis, who contributed an explosive 51 off 41 balls, which included three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious had been on the cusp of national selection following an exceptional domestic season. During 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 in the year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

At the tea interval, South Africa reached 248 for 6, with Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) holding their ground.