Brian Lara’s record for the highest individual score in the history of Test cricket has survived a major scare after South Africa, ironically captained by Wiaan Mulder, declared their first innings of the second Test match against Zimbabwe on 626/5, with Mulder sitting not out on 367.
The declaration came during lunch on the second day, with South Africa looking to take advantage of tired legs and seal the series.
Despite eventually forgoing his quest for Lara’s record, South Africa and Wiaan Mulder played an innings that will echo through the corridors of Test cricket history. The 27-year-old now stands as the only South African to pass 350 in Tests. His 367 is now the highest score ever by a Test captain, eclipsing Michael Clarke’s 329*, and the fifth-highest Test score ever in the history of the game.
Only Brian Lara (twice 400* and 375), Matthew Hayden (380), and Mahela Jayawardene (374) have scored more than the South African all-rounder.
If there was disappointment in not seeing the 400 milestone fall, there was no mistaking the admiration for Mulder’s masterclass. He showcased an approach that blended modern aggression with classical Test match discipline, scoring at a strike rate of 109.88 without ever surrendering control.
His decision to declare with the record in sight proved right, as South Africa removed two of Zimbabwe’s batters before the team entered double figures.
At just 27, Mulder has made clear that this will not be the last time he threatens cricket’s highest peaks. For now, Brian Lara’s record survives—but in the space of four sessions, it has never looked more vulnerable.
The scorecard will record that Mulder finished unbeaten on 367 but history will remember that he could have gone further.