South Africa rode on centurion knocks from 19-year-old batting sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Corbin Bosch to end Day 1's play of the first Test against Zimbabwe on a commanding position at 418/9 despite the rough start in Bulawayo. After a tumultuous morning session that left them struggling, the day transformed into a showcase of resilience and remarkable debut performances. Debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius and lower-order batsman Corbin Bosch spearheaded the recovery with contrasting yet equally significant centuries, guiding the visitors to a strong total of 418/9 by the end of Day 1.
Dream debut for Lhuan-dre Pretorius, lights up Bulawayo with robust century
In a batting lineup that bore little resemblance to their World Test Championship-winning team, South Africa faced an early onslaught. A fired-up Tanaka Chivanga delivered a devastating spell with the new ball, dismantling the Proteas' top order. Within a short period, Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke, and David Bedingham were all dismissed. The situation worsened when Wiaan Mulder was run out due to a mix-up, leaving South Africa in a precarious position at 55/4.
At just 19 years old, and making his Test debut, Pretorius walked to the crease with the dressing room morale likely low. However, displaying a maturity beyond his years, the left-hander launched a counter-attacking innings that completely shifted the momentum. He hit a six early in his innings and began consistently finding the boundary on the off-side with crisp drives and calculated aggression. The result was a sensational innings characterized by both elegant strokeplay and determined resilience.
Pretorius found valuable support initially from another young Proteas talent, Dewald Brevis, who contributed a lively 51 off just 41 deliveries, injecting much-needed energy into the innings after lunch. This brief partnership allowed Pretorius to settle into his innings with greater confidence. Despite Zimbabwe's persistent efforts with appeals and close chances, the teenager remained composed. Benefitting from a few close calls due to the absence of DRS, he never wavered in his attacking intent. He reached his maiden Test century in just 112 balls, becoming the youngest South African to achieve a debut century. His innings of 153 runs off 160 balls was a blend of clean hitting, remarkable composure, and fearless shot-making, featuring 20 fours and 4 towering sixes.
His dismissal after the tea break provided Zimbabwe with a brief glimmer of hope, but Corbin Bosch, another relatively new player to the Test format, ensured that South Africa maintained their advantage. In contrast to Pretorius's explosive innings, Bosch's knock was a masterclass in patience. Coming in at number 8, he initially focused on survival, accumulating runs through singles and building small but crucial partnerships with Keshav Maharaj and Codi Yusuf.
As the Zimbabwean bowlers began to tire, Bosch gradually started to expand his scoring options. In the final session of the day, he shifted gears with excellent timing and clarity, eventually reaching his maiden Test century off 124 deliveries with a boundary off the last ball of the day. Finishing unbeaten on 100, Bosch walked off the field alongside Maphaka, who had ended the day with a six, having played a key role in South Africa's unlikely dominance.
For Zimbabwe, Tanaka Chivanga's four-wicket haul was the standout performance on what was otherwise a frustrating day for the team. Missed opportunities, sloppy fielding, and the inability to capitalize on their early success allowed South Africa to regain control and finish the day strongly.
What began with panic and a batting collapse ultimately ended with promise and poise for South Africa.