Mulder makes 367 Shocks Cricket World, Stops Short of Lara’s Record
In a stunning display of batting prowess, Wiaan Mulder, South Africa’s stand-in captain, smashed an unbeaten 367 runs against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, securing the fifth-highest individual score in Test cricket history. The 27-year-old all-rounder, in only his 21st Test match, came agonizingly close to Brian Lara’s iconic world record of 400 not out but made the surprising decision to declare South Africa’s innings at 626 for 5 on the second day, just 33 runs shy of the milestone. Mulder’s triple-century, the second ever by a South African, has etched his name into cricket’s record books while sparking heated debate among fans and experts about his selfless choice to prioritize team strategy over personal glory. This article delves into Mulder’s historic innings, the records he shattered, and the bold declaration that left the cricket world buzzing.
A Record-Breaking Rampage in Bulawayo
Wiaan Mulder’s 367 not out was a masterclass in aggressive yet controlled batting, dismantling Zimbabwe’s bowling attack at the Queens Sports Club on July 6-7, 2025. Resuming day two on 264 not out, Mulder reached his triple-century in just 297 balls, making it the second-fastest in Test history, trailing only Virender Sehwag’s 278-ball effort against South Africa in 2008. His innings, which included 49 fours and four sixes, was a spectacle of power and precision, boasting a strike rate of 109.88—the highest among all Test triple-centurions.
Mulder’s journey to 367 was not without drama. On day one, he was bowled on 247 by Zimbabwe’s Tanaka Chivanga, only for replays to reveal a no-ball, giving him a second chance. He capitalized fully, adding 103 runs in the first session of day two alongside No. 7 batsman Kyle Verreynne, who remained unbeaten on 42. Mulder’s next 67 runs came in a blistering 37 balls, showcasing his ability to accelerate as Zimbabwe’s bowlers wilted. By surpassing Len Hutton’s 364 and Garfield Sobers’ 365 not out, Mulder entered the elite top five individual Test scores, trailing only Mahela Jayawardene (374), Brian Lara (375 and 400 not out), and Matthew Hayden (380).
The innings was a personal triumph for Mulder, who was promoted to No. 3 earlier in 2025 and had averaged just 26.20 in 33 Test innings prior to this match. As stand-in captain for the injured Keshav Maharaj, with regular captain Temba Bavuma rested, Mulder seized the opportunity to lead from the front.
His 367 surpassed Hashim Amla’s 311 not out against England in 2012, making it the highest Test score by a South African and the highest individual score by a visiting batter in Test cricket, eclipsing Pakistan’s Hanif Mohammed’s 337 from 1958.
A selfless Declaration Sparks Debate
As Mulder approached Lara’s 400 not out, set against England in Antigua in 2004, the cricketing world held its breath. With nearly four days left in the Test and South Africa in a dominant position at 626 for 5, Mulder seemed poised to chase history. Yet, at lunch on day two, he made the unexpected call to declare, sending Zimbabwe out to bat.
The decision, backed by coach Shukri Conrad, was rooted in team strategy and respect for Lara’s legacy. “First things first, I thought we’d got enough and we need to bowl,” Mulder told SuperSport. “Secondly, Brian Lara is a legend. He got 400 against England, and for someone of that stature to keep that record is pretty special.”
The declaration paid immediate dividends, as South Africa’s bowlers, led by Codi Yusuf, struck with the first ball, reducing Zimbabwe to 15 for 3. By stumps, Zimbabwe were 51 for 1 in their follow-on, trailing by 405 runs after being dismissed for 170 in their first innings.
Mulder himself took two wickets, reinforcing his all-round impact. However, the choice to halt his innings sparked a divide among fans and pundits. Former South African pacer Dale Steyn posted on X, “SA will win this Test with a day to spare, those few overs after lunch would never haunt them. 400 was deserved. That said, 367 is an amazing achievement. Congratulations, Wessie!” Others, like Lasith Malinga, echoed the sentiment, calling it a “once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Some fans praised Mulder’s humility, with one X post noting, “Proteas captain Wiaan Mulder confirmed the only reason to declare was to ensure that the highest Test score of 400* remains with the legend Brian Charles Lara.
Humility at its best.” Others, however, felt he should have pursued the record, arguing that Zimbabwe, a full ICC Test nation, was a legitimate opponent, as evidenced by Matthew Hayden’s 380 against them in 2003. The debate recalls Mark Taylor’s 1998 declaration on 334 not out to honor Don Bradman’s Australian record, a move Mulder’s decision mirrors in its respect for cricketing legends.
A New Chapter for South African Cricket
Mulder’s 367 not out is more than a personal milestone—it’s a landmark for South African cricket. As only the second South African to score a Test triple-century, he has cemented his place among the nation’s greats, surpassing icons like Graeme Smith (277), AB de Villiers (278 not out), and Gary Kirsten.
His innings also set multiple records: the highest Test score by a South African, the first triple-century by a South African captain, and the youngest captain (at 27 years and 138 days) to score a Test triple-century, overtaking Bob Simpson’s 1964 mark.
The innings has also solidified Mulder’s role as South Africa’s No. 3, a position once held by legends like Jacques Kallis and Hashim Amla. His performance came in front of his father, who attended the match after Mulder’s promotion to captaincy, adding a personal touch to the historic day. Social media erupted with praise, with the Proteas’ official account posting,
“The records just keep coming for Wiaan Mulder! What an astonishing display of skill, composure, and sheer determination!” Mulder himself remained humble, telling reporters, “To be honest, I’ve never even dreamed of getting a double hundred, never mind a triple hundred. But the most important thing is putting the team in a good position to hopefully win this Test.”
With South Africa in a commanding position and Mulder contributing with the ball, his leadership and all-round ability signal a bright future for the Proteas. As they rebuild for the next World Test Championship cycle, Mulder’s 367 not out stands as a testament to his potential as both a batsman and a captain, even if he chose team victory over a shot at Lara’s record.
Wiaan Mulder’s unbeaten 367 against Zimbabwe is a historic achievement that has rewritten South African cricket records and placed him among Test cricket’s elite. His decision to declare just 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s 400 not out sparked debate but showcased his leadership and respect for the game’s legends. With 49 fours, four sixes, and a blazing strike rate, Mulder’s innings was a spectacle that dominated Zimbabwe and captivated fans worldwide.
As South Africa pushes for victory in Bulawayo, Mulder’s selfless act and record-breaking knock have elevated him to a new level of respect, marking a defining moment in his career and the Proteas’ journey.
