Lhuan-dre Pretorius has rewritten the record books after smashing an unbeaten 188 for the Titans against the Knights in the CSA T20 Challenge in Bloemfontein.
The 20-year-old South African produced one of the most remarkable individual innings in men’s domestic T20 cricket, powering the Titans to 267-3 from their 20 overs at Mangaung Oval.
Gayle’s Long-Standing Record Falls
Pretorius’ extraordinary knock surpassed the previous record of 175 held by West Indies great Chris Gayle.
Gayle reached that mark for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors in the 2013 Indian Premier League, but his record has now been eclipsed by the young South African.
Pretorius remained unbeaten after facing 79 deliveries, finishing with 15 fours and 13 sixes.
A Stunning Display of Power Hitting
The Titans opener accelerated at an extraordinary rate throughout his innings.
He reached his half-century from just 24 balls before moving from 50 to 100 in only another 16 deliveries.
Pretorius then continued his assault, bringing up 150 from just 58 balls before eventually finishing on 188 not out from 79 deliveries.
His final strike rate of 237.97 underlined the remarkable speed at which he accumulated his runs.
Titans Post Huge Total
Pretorius’ record-breaking contribution provided the foundation for a massive Titans total of 267-3 after 20 overs.
The Knights were subsequently faced with the daunting task of chasing one of the biggest totals of the competition, but their response never threatened to match the Titans’ batting display.
Knights Bowled Out for 143
The Knights were dismissed for 143 in 17.2 overs, giving the Titans a comprehensive 124-run victory.
Cloete top-scored for the Knights with 39 from 25 deliveries, while Ferreira claimed three wickets for 16 runs as the Titans’ bowlers completed a dominant performance.
The result ensured Pretorius’ extraordinary innings was followed by a convincing team victory.
Pretorius Adds Another Milestone to His Career
Despite being only 20, Pretorius has already represented South Africa across multiple formats.
He has played 17 T20 internationals, three one-day internationals and two Test matches for the Proteas.
His latest performance adds another significant milestone to a career that is still in its early stages and places his name alongside some of the biggest individual performers in T20 cricket.
A Record That Will Attract Global Attention
Breaking a record previously held by Gayle, one of the most prolific T20 batsmen in cricket history, gives Pretorius’ innings added significance.
His unbeaten 188 combined extraordinary power with sustained scoring throughout the 20-over contest, helping the Titans reach a total that proved far beyond the Knights.
For Pretorius, it was a record-breaking night. For South African cricket, it was another reminder of the explosive batting talent emerging through the domestic game.
