In a bold move that has sparked discussions among cricket enthusiasts, South African captain Wiaan Mulder revealed that his decision to declare 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s illustrious world Test record was rooted in deep respect for the legendary West Indies batsman. This strategic choice unfolded during the match against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club on Monday, showcasing Mulder’s reverence for the game’s history.
Mulder delivered an extraordinary performance, smashing an unbeaten 367 – a new South African record and the fifth highest score in the history of Test cricket – before opting to declare at lunch on the second day of the second Test.
South Africa’s impressive total of 626 for five left Zimbabwe struggling to keep pace, proving far too formidable a challenge. The team was dismissed for 170 runs and found themselves at 51 for one in their second innings after being compelled to follow on.
“Brian Lara stands as a true icon of the game.” He scored 401 runs, or whatever the exact figure was (it was 400), against England. “It’s quite remarkable for an athlete of that calibre to maintain such a record,” Mulder remarked at the conclusion.
“Given another opportunity, I would undoubtedly make the same choice once more.”
Mulder engaged in a conversation with South African coach Shukri Conrad, who expressed his agreement with the decision made.
“He told me, let the legend maintain the record.”
Mulder showcased his skills by claiming two wickets and executing a crucial catch at slip, contributing significantly as Zimbabwe faltered in their response.
Sean Williams, having been permitted to bat only after the fall of five wickets due to time missed on account of illness, delivered a stunning performance, scoring an unbeaten 83 off just 55 balls in Zimbabwe’s sole innings of significance.
Starting the day on 264 not out, Mulder etched his name into the record books as the second South African to score a triple century, achieving this remarkable feat off just 297 balls. This places him as the second-fastest to reach the milestone, trailing only India’s Virender Sehwag, who accomplished the task in 278 deliveries against South Africa in Chennai during the 2007/08 season.
Mulder has shattered the previous record for the highest individual score by a South African, surpassing Hashim Amla’s remarkable 311 not out against England at The Oval in London back in 2012. He achieved this milestone with a series of impressive boundaries off fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani.
Mulder showcased his batting prowess by facing 334 deliveries, striking an impressive 49 fours and four sixes against a Zimbabwe bowling attack that appeared increasingly demoralised and lacking bite.
