Did Wiaan Mulder Make History with a Triple Century on His Test Captaincy Debut?
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Synopsis
Wiaan Mulder's historic triple century on his debut as Test captain against Zimbabwe has made waves in cricket history. With a score of 367 not out, he not only secured a remarkable victory for South Africa but also set new records. This outstanding performance has placed him among the legends of the game.
Key Takeaways
- Wiaan Mulder's score of 367 not out is the highest by a South African in Test history.
- He became the second South African to achieve a triple century in Tests.
- His performance included partnerships that significantly contributed to the team's total.
- Mulder's innings showcased his leadership and skill in high-pressure situations.
- South Africa reached 626/5 by lunchtime, nearing an all-time Test record.
Bulawayo, July 7 (NationPress) Wiaan Mulder has made his mark in the annals of South African cricket with a remarkable innings surpassing 300 runs during the second Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. The 27-year-old all-rounder, leading the team for the first time in the absence of Keshav Maharaj, transformed his unbeaten score of 264 from Day 1 into a stunning triple century, reaching 367 not out by lunchtime on Monday, establishing a new record for the highest individual score by a South African in Test match history.
Coming in at a challenging position of 24 for two on Day 1, Mulder displayed exceptional poise during his inaugural captaincy. He countered the early strikes from Tanaka Chivanga and Wellington Masakadza with a blend of solid defense and elegant strokeplay. His partnerships were pivotal in shaping the innings—184 runs with David Bedingham and a remarkable 217 runs off just 185 balls for the fourth wicket with Lhuan-dre Pretorius, marking the second-highest fourth-wicket partnership for South Africa in foreign conditions.
By the end of Day 1, he had already amassed 264 runs—the highest ever by a South African in a single day of Test cricket and the second-highest globally for an opening day. After resuming on Day 2, he quickly reached his triple century, joining Hashim Amla as only the second South African to achieve this feat in Tests. His 300 runs came off 297 balls, making it the second-fastest triple century in Test cricket history.
Mulder's double-century off 214 balls had already placed him second on the list for South Africa's fastest double tons, trailing behind Herschelle Gibbs. His triple-century now leads another record: the highest individual score by a South African in Tests, eclipsing Amla's previous record of 311 not out.
A true captain's innings, Mulder's performance not only stabilized the South African team after a rocky start but also etched his name in the record books. By lunchtime on Day 2, South Africa had reached 626/5, with Mulder approaching Brian Lara's coveted record of 400 not out (achieved against England at St John's in 2004) in Test cricket.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize Wiaan Mulder's remarkable achievement as a testament to South Africa's cricketing prowess. His performance not only reflects his individual skill and leadership but also strengthens the nation's cricketing identity. Such milestones inspire future generations and foster a rich cricketing heritage.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What records did Wiaan Mulder set during his innings?
Wiaan Mulder set the record for the highest individual score by a South African in Test history with 367 not out, and he is now the second South African to score a triple century in Tests.
How did Mulder perform on Day 1 of the Test match?
On Day 1, Mulder scored 264 runs, which is the most by any South African in a single day of Test cricket.
What was the significance of Mulder's captaincy debut?
Mulder's debut as captain was significant as it showcased his ability to lead and perform under pressure, especially after South Africa lost early wickets.
