Wiaan Mulder explains shocking decision to declare innings on 367*, just 33 runs short of breaking Brian Lara’s historic 400* Test record. Here’s why.
New Delhi: On Monday, July 7, Wiaan Mulder shocked the cricket world when he declared South Africa batting on 367 at the lunch break during the second Test against Zimbabwe being played at Harare Sports Club. Mulder was just 33 runs away from scoring 400 runs, which would have been the second time in the 148-year history of cricket. So far only Brian Lara has played an unbeaten innings of 400 runs against England in Antigua in 2004. That is why this decision became a topic of great discussion.
What did Wiaan Mulder himself say?
After the day’s play, Wiaan Mulder broke his silence and said that he deliberately did not break the record because he wanted Brian Lara’s record to remain. He said:
“I felt we had enough runs and should bowl now. Secondly, Brian Lara is a legend, let’s be honest. The 401 or whatever runs he scored against England is very special. If I get a chance again, I will probably do the same again.”
Role of coach Shukri Conrad
Mulder said that he also spoke to coach Shukri Conrad. He said:
“Shuks (coach) told me, ‘Listen, let the legends score big.’ You never know what is written in destiny for you, but I believe that Brian Lara’s record should remain.”
Who is Wiaan Mulder and what is his achievement?
29-year-old Wiaan Mulder is captaining South Africa for the first time and during this innings he broke many records. However, he decided not to go to the figure of 400. His score of 367 is the fifth-highest individual score in Test cricket history and the highest on overseas soil.
Day 2 Summary – Zimbabwe vs South Africa, 2nd Test
South Africa dominated the first two days of the second Test at Harare. After electing to bat, South Africa posted a mammoth 626/5 declared, led by captain Wiaan Mulder’s unbeaten 367*. Bedingham (82), Pretorius (78), and Brevis (30) offered solid support. Zimbabwe’s bowlers toiled, with Chivanga and Matigimu claiming two wickets each. In response, Zimbabwe struggled, folding for 170 in just 43 overs. Sean Williams fought alone with a brisk 83*, but no other batter crossed 25. Subrayen starred with 4 wickets, while Mulder, Yusuf, Bosch, and Muthusamy shared the rest. South Africa ended Day 2 in full control.
