Pretorius, 19, Smashes 61-Year Record to Become Youngest South African Test Centurion on Debut

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

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a teenage batting sensation, has etched his name in South African cricket history. On Saturday, he became 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, surpassing a 61-year-old record held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Coming to the crease with South Africa struggling at 23 for 3, Pretorious displayed remarkable composure and a fearless approach. He remained unbeaten with 128 runs off just 141 deliveries by the end of the second session. His innings included seven fours and four sixes, achieved at a strike rate of 90.78, helping stabilize the Proteas side during a difficult start.

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. 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 verge of national selection after 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 Pretorious (128) and Corbin Bosch (22) holding their ground.