Mulder Explains Decision to Preserve Lara’s Record

BULAWAYO: Wiaan Mulder of South Africa addressed the speculation surrounding his declaration at lunch on day two of the second Test against Zimbabwe while at 367 runs.

The 27-year-old, captaining the Proteas in a Test match for the first time, broke numerous records with his impressive innings, achieving the highest individual score for a South African batter in Test matches, previously held by Hashim Amla.

He was nearing Brian Lara’s record of 400, the highest individual score in Test cricket, but the all-rounder chose to declare the innings.

His choice was met with surprise, including from fellow South Africans Dale Steyn and Tabraiz Shamsi, who felt he should have continued batting after lunch.

Mulder clarified his decision at the end of the second day, stating that he deliberately allowed Brian Lara to maintain the record.

“I honestly never thought I would achieve a double hundred, let alone a triple hundred. Importantly, this puts the team in a strong position to secure a victory,” he stated.

“We had scored enough runs to challenge the opposition’s batting lineup. Brian Lara is a cricketing icon. His score of 400-plus against England is legendary, and it’s significant for someone to hold onto that record. I discussed it with Shukri Conrad and we agreed that the legends should keep these milestones. Lara retaining that record feels right,” he added.

The all-rounder also mentioned his early struggles in international cricket but noted that playing in England helped him identify his weaknesses and clarified the type of batter he aims to be.

“Initially, I wasn’t up to par when I began playing for South Africa. I’ve had the good fortune to learn from exceptional players, both past and present,” Mulder added.

“My time in England allowed me to define my batting style and understand my shortcomings. There were numerous lessons learned. I had thoughts that we had enough runs,” he further stated.

Wiaan Mulder also reflected on his dismissal from a no-ball when he had 247 runs, attributing it to a lapse in concentration.

Maintaining Focus

“During the dismissal at 247, due to a momentary lack of focus, there was negativity. However, there was also positive thinking. I tried to stay composed between deliveries, focusing on the present and not anticipating too far ahead,” Wiaan concluded.