🏏 Wiaan Mulder’s Historic 367* & Declaration
On July 7, 2025, South Africa’s acting captain Wiaan Mulder smashed an unbeaten 367 runs in the second Test versus Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. His knock shattered South African Test records, ranking it fifth in the all-time Test innings list. Surprisingly, Mulder declared at 626/5, forgoing a shot at Brian Lara’s 400*, igniting discussions across cricket forums.
🔥 Record‑Breaking 367* Innings
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Came in at No. 3 when SA were 24‑2, stabilizing with 264 on Day 1*.
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Day 2 saw him add 103 runs in the first session, reaching triple century in just 297 balls—second-fastest ever behind Sehwag.
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His unbeaten 367 included 49 boundaries and 4 sixes, setting multiple records:
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Highest Test score for South Africa, eclipsing Hashim Amla’s 311* (2012).
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Highest score in an away Test, surpassing Hanif Mohammad’s 337 (1958).
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First Test triple century in Zimbabwe.
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First triple century by a debut Test captain.
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🧭 The Selfless Declaration at 626/5
Despite being just 33 runs short of Lara’s world record, Mulder declared, stating on Supersport:
“I thought we had enough and we need to bowl. Secondly, Brian Lara is a legend.”
South Africa bowled out Zimbabwe for 170, thanks to spinner Prenelan Subrayen — a move that secured them a massive control in the Test match.
🌐 Reactions & Debate
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Dale Steyn backed Mulder’s declaration, predicting a likely win with a day to spare—but hinted 400 was “deserved”.
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Some fans debated that, given Zimbabwe’s Test status, Mulder might have chased the record, referencing Hayden’s 380 in 2003.
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Many praised Mulder’s sportsmanship and team-first mindset, prioritizing the match outcome.
⚖️ Legacy & Leadership
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Demonstrated exceptional leadership skills while captaining in Maharaj’s absence.
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His 367* stands as the second‑highest first‑class score by a South African, behind Stephen Cook’s 390.
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The innings is remembered not just for runs, but for ethical wisdom and tactical acumen.
📌 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What record did Mulder break with his 367?*
A1: He broke the highest Test score by a South African (previously Amla’s 311*), recorded the highest score in an away Test, became the first captain debutant to score a triple hundred, and posted Zimbabwe’s first-ever Test triple century.
Q2: Why did Mulder declare before reaching 400?
A2: Mulder prioritized the team’s strategic position, emphasizing aggression with the ball over chasing Lara’s 400. He also highlighted respect for Lara’s legacy.
Q3: How fast was Mulder’s triple century?
A3: His triple century came off just 297 balls, marking the second-fastest in Test history behind Virender Sehwag’s 278-ball effort.
Q4: What was the match impact of his declaration?
A4: The declaration allowed South Africa’s bowlers to dismiss Zimbabwe for 170, putting them firmly in control and likely to win the Test within another day.
Q5: How did cricket experts react?
A5: While many praised the selfless choice—for instance, Dale Steyn predicted victory, though he felt Mulder “deserved” the 400—others felt a chase was justified.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Wiaan Mulder’s unforgettable 367* in Bulawayo epitomizes the perfect blend of elite performance and unselfish captaincy. His declaration, though controversial, underscores a legacy built on maturity, respect, and strategic cricketing nous. As cricket fans digest this monumental Test, Mulder’s innings will be celebrated as a defining moment in South African cricket history.
