Wiaan Mulder, acting as South Africa’s stand-in captain, delivered one of the most historic Test cricket performances ever during the second Test in Bulawayo vs. Zimbabwe.
He scored an unbeaten 367, surpassing Hashim Amla’s 311* to become the highest individual Test scorer for his country. His innings also ranks as the fifth-highest in Test history.
The Match Context: Bulawayo Showdown.
This remarkable innings took place at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, during the 2025 South Africa vs Zimbabwe series.
Mulder walked in at number three on day one, steadily building toward a colossal total. By the end of day one, he had already reached 264*, the highest single-day run tally ever by a South African.
Why 367 Matters: Record‑Breaking Feats.
Mulder’s unbeaten 367 stands out for many reasons:
- South African record: Surpassed Amla’s 311* from 2012.
- Away Test record: Biggest away test score ever, overtaking Hanif Mohammad’s 337.
- Fifth-highest test score ever: Behind Lara (400*, 375), Hayden (380), and Jayawardena (374).
- Second-fastest triple century: Reached 300 in just 297 balls, bested only by Sehwag.
- CCaptaincy debut milestone: He is the first player ever to hit a triple century on a Test captaincy debut.
- High strike rate: A 109.88 strike rate sets a new bar for triple-centurions.
- Day‑long dominance: Scored 264 runs in a single day, setting a new national record.
- Power hitting: Included 49 fours and four sixes.
The Declaration: Team Over Records.
At lunch on the second day, Mulder and the team made a bold decision. Despite being just 33 runs shy of equalling Brian Lara’s world record (400*), they chose to declare at 626/5.
Mulder explained:
“I thought we had enough… Brian Lara is a legend and deserves to keep that record.”
This selfless choice earned admiration worldwide.
On-Field Impact: Follow-On Enforced.
South Africa’s declaration proved tactical as they bowled out Zimbabwe for 170 in their first innings, forcing them to continue and trail by 405 runs.
Mulder further contributed by taking two wickets, while debutant Prenelan Subrayen impressed with 4-42.
This is my perspective as an observer.
I have followed Test cricket for over a decade, and moments like this are rare. Watching Mulder bat—smooth, confident, and in control—felt like witnessing a masterclass.
Not only did he break records, but he also combined flair with strategic maturity.
I remember the roar that filled the stadium when he raised his bat after crossing 300 runs.
The stadium echoed with applause that celebrated not just the runs but also his decision to prioritize the team over personal glory.
Why This Inning Will Be Remembered.
Wiaan Mulder’s innings is more than just a batting performance. It marks:
- Redefinition of leadership in Test cricket.
- A balance between individual excellence and team victory.
- A new ideal: chasing legacy with respect, not selfish ambition.
- This has significantly bolstered South Africa’s confidence as they embark on their World Test Championship journey.
Conclusion.
Wiaan Mulder’s 367* in Bulawayo is more than just another high score; it represents a significant statement.
A This statement champions both cricketing brilliance and selfless leadership. His innings reshape conversations around records and responsibilities—and cement his place in the annals of the game.
In a sport driven by numbers, Wiaan Mulder reminded us of the greater victory: team unity, strategic clarity, and the spirit of true sportsmanship.
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