Wed. Jul 30th, 2025

Mulder's Monumental Triple Century Puts South Africa in Control

Wiaan Mulder etched his name into cricketing history with a breathtaking unbeaten 367, propelling South Africa into a commanding position against Zimbabwe in the second Test at Bulawayo. On a sunlit day at the Queens Sports Club, Mulder’s masterclass not only shattered South African records but also sparked debate with his bold declaration at lunch, choosing team goals over a possible world record.

South Africa’s first innings total of 626/5 was more than enough to put Zimbabwe under immense pressure. The hosts struggled in response, collapsing for 170 and ending Day 2 at 52/1 in their follow-on innings, still trailing by 405 runs.

Mulder’s Historic Innings: A Captain’s Knock for the Ages

Standing in as captain for the injured Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder delivered one of the finest Test innings ever by a South African batter. His 367 not out is now the highest individual Test score by a South African, surpassing Hashim Amla’s 311 against England.

Mulder’s marathon innings included 49 boundaries and four towering sixes, one of which cleared the ground entirely. He resumed Day 2 on 465/4 alongside Dewald Brevis and carried on with calm aggression. After Brevis departed for 72, Kyle Verreynne joined him, and together they added 113 runs, further grinding down the Zimbabwe attack.

What made Mulder’s innings even more special was his decision to declare during the lunch break, walking off unbeaten and just 33 runs shy of Brian Lara’s world record 400. With his father watching proudly from the stands, Mulder put team interests first, giving his bowlers ample time to dismantle Zimbabwe’s batting.

A Bold Declaration That Sparked Debate

Mulder’s declaration at 626/5 will undoubtedly fuel cricketing discussions in the coming days. With Lara’s iconic 400* within reach, most captains might have chased personal glory. But Mulder, displaying rare selflessness, prioritized South Africa’s position in the match.

The decision paid immediate dividends, as South Africa’s bowlers capitalized on a tiring Zimbabwe side and bowled them out for just 170 in under 43 overs. Mulder’s gamble, though controversial, demonstrated sharp tactical awareness.

Zimbabwe’s Batting Collapse

Zimbabwe’s reply never got going. Debutant Prenelan Subrayen, the off-spinner, starred with figures of 4/42, exploiting the cracks on the worn pitch. Fast bowlers Codi Yusuf and Corbin Bosch made early inroads, removing the top order cheaply.

Apart from Sean Williams, who battled to 43, the rest of the lineup faltered against South Africa’s relentless pressure. Williams lacked support at the other end as wickets tumbled regularly, forcing Zimbabwe to follow on.

Follow-On Woes Continue for Zimbabwe

In their second innings, Zimbabwe began more cautiously but still struggled. Corbin Bosch struck early to remove Dion Myers, leaving the hosts at 20/1. Opener Takudzwanashe Kaitano showed some resistance with a gritty 34*, while Nick Welch (6*) provided company.

Bad light ended play early, but Zimbabwe remains in deep trouble, trailing by 405 runs with three days to play. Unless the weather intervenes, South Africa look set to wrap up the match swiftly.

Debut Delight for Prenelan Subrayen

While Mulder’s innings stole the headlines, spinner Prenelan Subrayen enjoyed a memorable Test debut. He showcased great control and flight, deceiving Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order to pick up four wickets.

Subrayen’s success complements South Africa’s pace attack, giving them another spin option alongside the established Maharaj. His performance has likely earned him further opportunities in the Test arena.

Conclusion

Wiaan Mulder’s epic 367* and unselfish declaration exemplify what leadership is about—putting the team first. His innings has not only written a new chapter in South African cricket but has also strengthened his credentials as a leader of the future.

South Africa’s bowlers backed up their skipper’s bold move, leaving Zimbabwe with an almost impossible task to save the Test. Unless Zimbabwe stages an extraordinary fightback, South Africa are poised to clinch a dominant victory and secure the series.