Brian Lara’s 21-year-old world record of 400 not out in Test cricket still stands strong. South African captain Wiaan Mulder came very close to breaking it but shocked everyone by declaring the innings at 367 not out during the second Test match against Zimbabwe.
Mulder was in excellent form and looked set to create history. But during the lunch break, he made a surprising decision in the dressing room — he declared the innings for the sake of the team, putting national pride ahead of personal achievement.
South Africa’s Dominance Continues in Zimbabwe Series
South Africa is currently leading the two-match Test series against Zimbabwe. After winning the first Test match, they have taken strong control in the second Test as well.
Wiaan Mulder’s decision to declare shows his focus on the team’s victory, even when he had the golden chance to break one of cricket’s biggest batting records.
Mulder’s Stunning Knock: 367* Runs
In South Africa’s first innings of the second Test, Mulder played one of the finest knocks of his career. He remained unbeaten on 367 runs off 334 balls, smashing 49 fours and 4 sixes. His innings helped the team reach a massive score of 626 for 5 wickets, before he declared.
Mulder’s powerful batting had many fans and experts thinking that Brian Lara’s 400* — the highest individual score in Test cricket, made in 2004 against England — would finally be broken. But instead, Mulder chose team over history.
Why Did Mulder Declare?
According to sources, Mulder decided during lunch that the team had enough runs on the board and it was time to bowl out Zimbabwe. He didn’t want to waste time chasing a personal record while the match could be won.
This selfless decision shocked many fans but also earned him respect from the cricket world.
Mulder’s Rising Career
Wiaan Mulder has been in excellent form. In the first Test match, he scored a brilliant 147 runs and also took 4 wickets. Even though Keshav Maharaj was the captain in that game, Mulder led from the front.
Also Read: India Breaks Birmingham Curse, Crushes England by 336 Runs in 2nd Test
So far in his career, Mulder has played 21 Test matches, scored 1153 runs at an average of 38.43, including 3 centuries and 1 half-century, and has taken 35 wickets as well.
He is fast becoming one of South Africa’s most valuable players in all departments.
Other Star Performers in the Second Test
Besides Mulder, several other players also contributed to South Africa’s big total:
- David Bedingham scored a solid 82 runs
- Luan de Pretorius added 78 runs
- Wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne stayed unbeaten at 42 runs
Their combined effort took South Africa to 626/5 declared, putting Zimbabwe under big pressure.
Brian Lara’s Record Lives On
Brian Lara’s 400 against England in 2004 remains the highest individual score in Test cricket.* Many players have tried to break it, but none have succeeded. Mulder came close, but his team-first attitude stopped him from going further.
In the world of cricket, such a decision is rare. Mulder’s move might disappoint fans hoping for a new record, but it shows the spirit of the game.
Disclaimer: This article is for news and educational purposes only. It does not aim to promote or criticize any player or team. All information is based on current reports and match details available publicly.
