South African cricketer Lhuan-dre Pretorius has set a new T20 world record, scoring 188 not out for the Momentum Multiply Titans against the Free State Knights in the YesPlay Pro20 Cup. The 20-year-old Pretorius achieved this feat on a flat Mangaung Oval pitch in Bloemfontein, surpassing Chris Gayle's previous record of 175. Pretorius's innings lasted 79 balls and included 13 sixes and 15 fours.
Pretorius's record-breaking innings was a display of his hitting prowess, with pulls, hooks, and power sweeps on offer. He also played a few signature lofted drives over the covers, showcasing his skill and technique. The young cricketer has been making waves in the cricketing world, having shot to prominence two years ago for the Paarl Royals in the SA20 and subsequently being capped 22 times by the Proteas.
The previous highest individual score by a South African was made by Pretorius's teammate Dewald Brevis, who scored 162 against the Knights in Potchefstroom four years ago. Pretorius's 188 runs is not only a new T20 record but also a significant achievement for the young cricketer. The Titans' final total of 267/3 is the second-highest T20 innings on South African soil.
The Knights, struggling to contain Pretorius's efforts, were bowled out for 143, losing by 124 runs. In another match, the North West Dragons claimed a stunning six-wicket victory against the Lions in a high-scoring clash at the DP World Wanderers. Wihan Lubbe's 55 and Dian Forrester's 51 not out off 28 balls helped the Dragons surpass the Lions' target of 206 with four balls to spare.
The Lions' Mitchell van Buuren top-scored with 66 off 36 balls, while Rassie van der Dussen blasted 46 off 33 deliveries. JJ Basson, who took 11 wickets on his first-class debut recently, was the best of the Lions bowlers, finishing with 2/27 from four overs in his first professional T20 match.
In the evening's third match, the Mpumalanga Rhinos beat the KZN-Inland Tuskers by 17 runs. The Rhinos' victory marked another exciting result in the YesPlay Pro20 Cup. The tournament has seen some thrilling matches and impressive performances, with Pretorius's record-breaking innings being a highlight.
Pretorius's achievement has garnered attention from the cricketing world, with many praising his skill and talent. The young cricketer's future looks bright, and he is expected to make a significant impact in the sport. For now, he will bask in the glory of his record-breaking innings and look to continue performing at a high level.
Key points
- Lhuan-dre Pretorius sets new T20 world record with 188 not out
- Pretorius breaks Chris Gayle's previous record of 175
- The Momentum Multiply Titans post a total of 267/3, the second-highest T20 innings on South African soil
