Fresh off Test captaincy, Wiaan Mulder shocked the cricket world with a majestic 367 not out during South Africa’s second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, a knock that ranks 5th highest in Test history, and the highest ever by a South African. Yet in an unexpected twist, Mulder declared the innings 33 runs shy of breaking Brian Lara’s iconic 400* record, choosing team dominance over personal glory.
ALSO READ: Proteas vs Zimbabwe: Standout Performers in Bulawayo.
Mulder reached his triple century in just 297 balls, becoming the second-fastest to 300 in Test cricket, only behind Sehwag. He struck 53 boundaries (49 fours and four sixes), smashing Hashim Amla’s previous South African record (311*) along the way.
With South Africa placed at 626/5 declared, Mulder effectively sealed the game, taking two wickets in the next session and enforcing a follow-on as Zimbabwe stumbled again.
Why He Declared
In a Supersport interview, Mulder revealed that coach Shukri Conrad and captain duty influenced his decision: “We had enough and need to bowl,” and “Brian Lara is a legend… let the legends keep the really big scores”. This showed both humility and match awareness, not only preserving the record but making a bold captain’s call.
Records That Fell
- 5th highest Test score ever *Only 33 runs short of 400**, Lara’s record since 2004
- Highest by a South African and second-fastest triple century
- Best maiden captain innings ever, surpassing Taylor and Jayawardene in the records
Leadership Under Pressure
For a player previously averaging just 26.20 in Tests, this knock marks a monumental leap. Taking the prized captain’s armband, Mulder demonstrated not only technical brilliance but mental maturity.
