Lhuan-dre Pretorius breaks records in test debut for South Africa

At just 19 years and 93 days, Pretorius became the youngest South African to hit a test century, and the youngest player to score 150 in test cricket, among many other records he smashed.

In a performance that gave a glimpse of what the future looks like for South African cricket, he hit four sixes and 11 fours in 160 deliveries, but says none of it was easy pickings.

"This knock was far from easy; it is just the beginning of the road, and I know there is still a long way to go.

"My domestic performances boosted my confidence, but all that is in the past now. Hopefully, I can reproduce this innings again, and again, and again," said the proud debutant. 

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Pretorius’ 150, and another 100 from Corbin Bosch helped the Proteas to a healthy 418 first innings total, but it wasn’t always looking rosy earlier in the day. He came in with the team in a dire situation at 23/3, not exactly the best time for a debutant to arrive at the crease.

He says he just had to stay calm and play his game.

"Representing my country hasn't completely sunk in yet, but my batting partners kept me calm, and after a difficult opening period, we managed to find our way," explained the centurion.  

He did admit that the Zimbabwean pace attack was difficult to deal with in the first session. Tanaka Chivanga ended the day with figures of 4/83, while Blessing Muzarabani produced 2/59.

The Potchefstroom-born youngster survived a shout from the hosts when they were convinced of an inside edge to the keeper when he was on 30, but the umpire gave nothing in the absence of DRS.

Believing Pretorius should have walked, the Zimbabweans made their unhappiness clear to him. The Proteas will resume day two on 418/9 with Bosch and Kwena Maphaka at the crease.

"There was a bit of chirping going on, but I like it because it keeps me in the fight. Test match cricket can go on for a very long time, and one can get bored, but you can never grow bored or tired of representing your country."