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07 July 2025

Wiaan Mulder Shatters Records With Historic Test Triple Century

South Africa’s stand-in captain scores unbeaten 367 on debut, sets multiple records before declaring innings against Zimbabwe

In a dazzling display of skill and leadership, Wiaan Mulder has etched his name into cricketing history with a monumental unbeaten 367 runs on his Test captaincy debut against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The 27-year-old South African all-rounder not only shattered multiple records but also made a strategic declaration that sparked widespread debate across the cricketing world.

Mulder’s innings, which unfolded on Monday, 7 July 2025, was nothing short of spectacular. Resuming from an overnight score of 264 not out, he went on to surpass the legendary Graeme Smith’s highest score by a South African captain, which stood at 277 since 2003. His relentless assault on the Zimbabwean bowling attack culminated in a triple century off just 297 balls, the second-fastest in Test cricket history behind only Virender Sehwag’s 278-ball triple hundred against South Africa in 2008.

By reaching this milestone, Mulder became the first player ever to score a triple century on his Test captaincy debut. At 27 years and 138 days old, he also claimed the title of the youngest skipper to record a Test triple century, breaking a 61-year-old record previously held by Australian captain Bob Simpson, who was 28 years and 171 days when he scored 311 in 1964.

Mulder’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive yet calculated batting. With 49 fours and four sixes, he maintained a strike rate of 109.88, the highest ever among triple-centurions. His 367 not out stands as the fifth-highest individual score in Test cricket history, trailing only Brian Lara’s iconic 400 not out (2004), Matthew Hayden’s 380 (2003), Lara’s 375 (1994), and Mahela Jayawardene’s 374 (2006).

Despite being tantalizingly close to breaking Lara’s world record by just 33 runs, Mulder made the surprising decision to declare South Africa’s innings at 626 for five at lunch on Day 2. The declaration came after consultations with coach Shukri Cornard, with Mulder explaining, "First things first. We had enough to bowl (at). Brian Lara is a legend. He got 400 or 401 or something against England and for someone to keep that record, it is special. I spoke to Shuks (coach) - and spoke about letting the legends keep (that record). Lara keeping that record is exactly the way it should be."

This gesture of respect sparked a flurry of reactions. Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn expressed confidence that South Africa would have still secured victory with a day to spare had Mulder pursued the record, tweeting, "SA will win this Test with a day to spare. Those few overs after lunch will never haunt them. 400 was deserved. That said, 367 is an amazing achievement. Congratulations, Wessie!" Meanwhile, fans and cricket analysts debated the merits of Mulder’s selflessness versus the allure of chasing history.

South Africa’s declaration left Zimbabwe precariously placed at 2-4, with the Proteas having already clinched the opening Test of the series by a commanding 328 runs. Mulder’s captaincy debut was thus not only a personal triumph but also a strategic success, setting up a dominant position in the series.

Mulder’s rise has been remarkable. Making his Test debut in 2019, he had a modest career average of 26.20 over 20 matches before this series. However, recent performances have seen him flourish, including twin centuries against Zimbabwe in the opening Test of this series and a century against Bangladesh in 2024. His 367* innings is a testament to his growth and potential as both a player and leader.

In addition to his batting feats, Mulder’s innings holds historical significance for South African cricket. He is only the second South African after Hashim Amla to score a Test triple century, joining an elite club. His 367 not out also surpassed Amla’s national record of 311 not out against England in 2012, setting a new benchmark for future Proteas batsmen.

The innings was also notable for the sheer volume of runs scored in a single day. Mulder’s 264 not out on Day 1 was the most runs ever by a South African in one day of Test cricket and ranks as the sixth-highest individual daily score in the history of the game.

Mulder’s knock was punctuated by moments of drama, including a near dismissal on 247 when he was bowled but saved by a no-ball from Zimbabwean bowler Tanaka Civanga. This reprieve allowed him to continue his assault, eventually reaching the triple century and beyond.

As the cricketing world digests this extraordinary performance, Mulder’s decision to declare rather than chase the record invites reflection on the balance between individual glory and team strategy. His respect for cricketing legends and focus on securing a win for South Africa underlines the maturity of a captain who has already made a lasting impact.

Whether Mulder will have another chance to challenge Lara’s record remains to be seen, but his debut as Test captain has already secured him a place in the annals of cricket history. The Proteas look well-positioned to continue their dominance in this series, buoyed by the leadership and form of their new skipper.

For now, cricket fans around the globe can celebrate a thrilling chapter in the sport, marked by record-breaking feats, strategic acumen, and the enduring spirit of the game.