Lhuan-dre Pretorious, 19, Shatters 61-Year Record, Becomes Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

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

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

The 19-year-old achieved this remarkable feat against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, surpassing a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Pretorious arrived at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3. He demonstrated remarkable composure and a fearless approach, ultimately smashing an unbeaten 128 off just 141 deliveries by the end of the second session. His innings included seven boundaries and four sixes, achieved at a striking strike rate of 90.78. His performance stabilized a new-look Proteas side that had experienced early setbacks.

The young right-hander eclipsed Pollock's milestone, which was set in 1964 when Pollock scored a century at 19 years and 317 days against Australia in Sydney. At just 19 years and 93 days, Pretorious now holds the record as the youngest South African to achieve a century 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, featuring three fours and four sixes.

Pretorious's entrance onto the national stage was preceded by a stellar domestic season. He amassed 436 runs in five matches during the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, maintaining an impressive average of 72.66, including three centuries. He also showcased his talent in the SA20 league earlier in the year, scoring 397 runs in 12 matches for the Paarl Royals.

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