Teenage Star Lhuan-dre Pretorious Makes History, Claims Youngest South African Test Centurion Title on Debut

Lhuan-dre Pretorious, a prodigious talent, has indelibly marked his name in South African cricket history. The 19-year-old became the youngest South African to achieve a Test century on debut.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious celebrates his record-breaking century.

This remarkable feat occurred during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Pretorious eclipsed a 61-year-old record previously held by the legendary Graeme Pollock.

Arriving at the crease with South Africa in a precarious position at 23 for 3, Pretorious exhibited remarkable composure. By the end of the second session, he had amassed an unbeaten 128 off a mere 141 deliveries. His innings, punctuated with seven boundaries and four towering sixes, was constructed at an impressive strike rate of 90.78. It served to stabilize a relatively inexperienced Proteas team early in the match.

The young right-hander surpassed Pollock’s milestone, established in 1964 when the iconic left-hander scored 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. Brevis contributed an explosive 51 off 41 balls, including three fours and four sixes, further bolstering the South African innings.

Pretorious had been on the cusp of national selection following an outstanding domestic season. In the 2024/25 CSA 4-Day Series, he amassed 436 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 72.66. His stellar performance included three centuries. He also showcased his talent in the SA20 league earlier this 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) remaining at the crease.