Bulawayo, July 7, 2025 – South Africa’s stand-in Test captain Wiaan Mulder has delivered a seismic performance in the second Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. Mulder’s unbeaten 367 from 334 balls not only cemented his place as one of Test cricket’s elite batsmen, but also propelled South Africa into a dominant position, resulting in a follow-on enforced on the hosts.
An Unforgettable Innings
Triple century on captaincy debut: At 27 years and 138 days, Mulder became the youngest skipper to score a Test triple century, surpassing Australia’s Bob Simpson (27y 171d).
Historic highest South African Test score: He eclipsed Hashim Amla’s 311*, registering South Africa’s highest-ever Test innings.
Fifth-highest in Test cricket: His 367* positions Mulder fifth on the all-time Test run-scorers list .
Second-fastest triple century: Achieved off 297 deliveries, just behind Virender Sehwag’s 278-ball effort in 2008.
The Decision: Declaration at Lunch
Displaying rare leadership, Mulder declared at lunch with the team at 626/5, deliberately stopping short of Brian Lara’s Test record of 400. The captain explained his choice:
“Brian Lara is a legend… I spoke to Shuks (coach Shukri Conrad)… letting the legends keep that record.”
Dominating the Match
After the batting collapse, South Africa dismissed Zimbabwe for 170 in only 43 overs — a swift follow-on triggered by Mulder’s bowling contributions (2/20). At stumps, Zimbabwe was 51/1, trailing by 405 runs.
Key performances:
Mulder: 367* & 2 wickets
Prenelan Subrayen: 4/42 on debut
Sean Williams (ZIM): 83* in first innings despite illness
With South Africa ahead by more than 400 runs, they are firmly positioned for back-to-back Test victories — the Proteas have now won nine consecutive Tests, seeking a tenth .
Match Wrap-Up: At a Glance
| Segment | Details |
|---|---|
| SA innings | 626/5 declared (Mulder 367*, Bedingham 82, Pretorius 52) |
| ZIM 1st inns. | 170 all out in 43 overs (Subrayen 4/42, Mulder 2/20; Williams 83*) |
| ZIM 2nd inns. | 51/1 at stumps, trailing by 405 runs |
| Session summary | SA dominate; classic captaincy sets tone for impending result |
Mulder on Mulder — In His Own Words
Speaking to the press, Mulder offered a rare window into his mindset and tactical decisions:
“When I got past Hash’s… it was pretty special. …I kept singing my song… kept me in the present.”
On declaring before the 400 milestone, he added:
“I thought we got enough… Brian Lara is a legend… if I get a chance to do it again, I’d do it exactly the same way.”
Mulder’s declaration follows in the footsteps of Mark Taylor declaring on 334* to preserve Don Bradman’s record.
South Africa’s Test renaissance: Fresh off their ICC WTC Final win at Lord’s in June, the Proteas look to carry momentum into this tour.
Read more:
Dhaurandhar: Ranveer Singh’s Next Big Spy Thriller – Teaser Drops With Intense First Look!
“Xiaomi 15 Ultra: The Leica-Engineered Powerhouse Dominating 2025 Flagships”
“Kaanta Laga” Sensation Shefali Jariwala Dies at 42
Chelsea Overcome Weather Havoc and Benfica to Advance 4–1 After Extra Time
India Women vs England Women, 1st T20I – Trent Bridge
