On July 7, 2025, South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder came within touching distance of cricketing history. Batting on 367 not out against Zimbabwe, he was just 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s unbeaten 400 the highest individual score in Test cricket. But in a move that stunned the cricketing world, Mulder declared the innings, prioritizing a potential team victory over a personal milestone.
What Happened?
- Match: South Africa vs. Zimbabwe
- Venue: Queen’s Sports Club, Bulawayo
- Mulder’s score: 367* off 374 balls
- South Africa’s score at declaration: 626 for 5
- Record in sight: Brian Lara’s 400* (set in 2004 vs. England)
Mulder’s innings included 49 fours and 4 sixes, and he batted for over 10 hours, dominating Zimbabwe’s bowling on a flat pitch. With the chance to break a 21-year-old world record, the cricketing community held its breath but then came the unexpected declaration.
Why Did Mulder Declare?
In the post-match interview, Mulder offered a selfless and team-focused explanation: It would’ve been great to go past Lara that’s every kid’s dream but we felt we had enough and wanted to give our bowlers the best chance to win
Also read: Faf du Plessis Overtakes Virat Kohli in All-Time T20 Record; Details Inside
Key reasons for the declaration:
- Time management: South Africa needed sufficient time to dismiss Zimbabwe twice and push for victory.
- Team-first mindset: The match result took precedence over personal accolades.
- Respect for Lara: Mulder added: Let the legend keep the record, honoring Lara’s iconic feat.
Cricket World Reacts
- Coach Shukri Conrad praised his maturity and leadership.
- Cricket legends and commentators hailed the decision as rare sportsmanship in modern cricket.
- Fans were divided some were disappointed at the missed record, while many admired his humility and commitment to the team.
What Mulder Achieved Regardless
Even without surpassing Lara’s 400*, Mulder left his mark on history:
- 367 is the highest Test score ever by a South African*, breaking Hashim Amla’s record of 311*.
- It ranks as the fifth-highest individual Test score of all time.
- Mulder reached 300 in just 297 balls, the second-fastest triple century in Test history.
Written by RITESH SINGH
