Why did Wiaan Mulder declare at 367*? A tribute to Brian Lara
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Synopsis
Wiaan Mulder, the South African all-rounder, shares the rationale behind his surprising declaration at 367* during the Test match against Zimbabwe. In a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Brian Lara, Mulder emphasizes the importance of legacy in cricket, while his remarkable performance sets new records for South Africa.
Key Takeaways
- Wiaan Mulder's declaration at 367* showcases his leadership and team-first mentality.
- He paid tribute to Brian Lara, emphasizing the importance of legacy in cricket.
- South Africa set a powerful total of 626, dominating Zimbabwe in the first innings.
- Records were broken as Mulder surpassed previous South African scores in Test cricket.
- Zimbabwe faces a challenging task in their second innings, needing to overcome a significant deficit.
Bulawayo, July 7 (NationPress) Wiaan Mulder explained why he declared his innings at 33 runs shy of the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket during the second match of the two-Test series against Zimbabwe at the Queen’s Sports Club on Monday.
Mulder, aged 27, remained not out at 367 when the lunch interval was reached. After South Africa posted a formidable total of 626/5, the all-rounder opted to end their innings rather than pursue the chance to join the exclusive 400-run club. His first-innings score now stands as the highest individual score achieved by a South African in Test cricket history.
The Proteas all-rounder, who took on the captaincy for the first time in this match, expressed his belief that the legendary Brian Lara of the West Indies rightfully deserves to retain his record of 400 not out, which he accomplished against England back in 2004.
“To begin with, I felt we had amassed enough runs and it was time to bowl. Furthermore, Brian Lara is a legend. For someone of his caliber to hold that record is truly deserved. If I had the opportunity again, I would act in the same manner. I discussed it with Shuks (Shukri Conrad), and he shared the same sentiment. Brian Lara is a legend, and he rightfully deserves to keep that record,” Mulder stated during the post-day interview.
With an impressive score of 626 set by lunch on Day 2, Zimbabwe's batting lineup struggled against the Proteas bowlers, being dismissed for just 170 runs in their first innings, which led South Africa to enforce the follow-on.
Debut spinner Prenelan Subrayen took four wickets, while both Codi Yusuf and captain Mulder secured two wickets each. Additionally, Senuran Muthusamy and Corbin Bosch claimed one wicket each.
At the close of play on Sunday, Mulder had already accumulated 264 runs, marking the most runs scored by any South African in a single day of Test cricket. He subsequently surpassed Hashim Amla's record of 311 to claim the title of the highest score by a South African batter.
The all-rounder elaborated on his mindset both overnight and during his extraordinary innings on Day 2.
“The thoughts in your mind are the most crucial aspect, and I had numerous thoughts. After being bowled off a no-ball last night, I experienced many negative feelings, but there were positives as well. I aimed to maintain a positive outlook, focusing on my footwork and keeping upbeat songs running through my mind. During breakfast, someone mentioned that 277 is the highest score by a debutant captain, which became my first milestone. I surpassed Hash’s (Amla) score and only then realized I had reached 312,” he added.
At the end of Day 2, Zimbabwe’s second innings score stood at 51/1, facing an almost insurmountable task of overcoming a 405-run deficit that awaits them on Tuesday.
Point of View
It is my duty to provide unbiased coverage of sporting events. Wiaan Mulder's decision to declare at 367* showcases both his understanding of the game and respect for cricket legends like Brian Lara. It is essential to recognize the significance of such moments in sports history.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Wiaan Mulder declare his innings at 367*?
Wiaan Mulder declared his innings at 367* to prioritize the team's bowling needs and to honor Brian Lara's legendary record of 400 not out, believing that a player of Lara's stature deserved to keep that record.
What record did Wiaan Mulder achieve?
Wiaan Mulder's score of 367* is now the highest individual score by a South African in Test cricket history.
Who is Brian Lara?
Brian Lara is a former West Indies cricketer, renowned for holding the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket with 400 not out, achieved in 2004.
How did Zimbabwe perform in their first innings?
Zimbabwe was dismissed for 170 runs in their first innings, struggling against the South African bowlers.
What is the current situation in the match?
At the end of Day 2, Zimbabwe's second innings score is 51/1, facing a daunting 405-run deficit.
