📸 Image Credit: @Werries_ on X

 Bulawayo — Stand-in captain Wiaan Mulder delivered a sensational performance on Day 1 of the second Test at Queens Sports Club, smashing an unbeaten 264 off 259 balls — the highest-ever score by a player in his first innings as captain in an away Test. He broke a 56-year-old record previously held by New Zealand’s Graham Dowling.

Zimbabwe, having won the toss and choosing to bowl first, were quickly under pressure as Mulder forged a 184-run partnership with David Bedingham for the third wicket. Bedingham contributed a patient 82 before being trapped lbw by Tanaka Chivanga.

Previous match's centurian Lhuan-dre Pretorius, just 20 years old, then stepped up with an aggressive 78 off 87 deliveries, forming a 217-run stand with Mulder that deflated Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. Pretorius showed poise beyond his years before falling to a mistimed shot.

Mulder reached his century off 118 balls and brought up his double century in 214 deliveries — the second-fastest by a South African in Test history. His innings was laced with 35 boundaries and three sixes. He brought up his 250 from just 243 balls, showcasing an exceptional mix of patience and aggression.

At stumps, South Africa were in complete control at 465/4 in 88 overs, with Mulder unbeaten and Dewald Brevis at the crease on 15*. The scoring rate of over five runs an over reflected their dominance throughout the day.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to find rhythm, with Chivanga claiming two wickets but leaking runs. A key moment came when Mulder was seemingly dismissed, only for the delivery to be ruled a no-ball — a moment that summed up Zimbabwe’s misfortunes.

Series Context & Looking Ahead

Having won the first Test by 328 runs, South Africa already lead the two-match series 1–0. With regular captain Temba Bavuma sidelined due to injury and Keshav Maharaj captaining the opener, Mulder’s leadership debut has been nothing short of extraordinary.

The Proteas are well positioned to enforce a big first-innings total and possibly wrap up the match with days to spare.