Lhuan-dre Pretorius Makes South African Cricket History with T20 Century

Lhuan-dre Pretorius smashed his way into South African cricket history in Windhoek, becoming the youngest player from his country to score a T20 International century.

Just days after bludgeoning 94 against Zimbabwe, the 20-year-old opener went one better against Namibia, hammering 101 from 53 balls in an 11-run win for the Proteas in the Tri-Series. He cleared the ropes eight times, threaded five fours, and never really looked like slowing down.

The assault at the top was perfectly matched by Connor Esterhuizen’s own onslaught. Coming in with the platform set, he tore into the Namibian attack for 88 off just 40 deliveries. Between them, Pretorius and Esterhuizen piled on 156 runs in only 11.5 overs, a stand that ripped the game open and left the hosts chasing shadows.

South Africa rode that partnership to a towering 228 for four, a total that looked imposing the moment it went up on the board.

Namibia refused to roll over. In a high-scoring reply, the hosts kept swinging and kept the chase alive deep into the innings, finishing on 217 for three. They stayed within striking distance, but the asking rate never quite came back under control as the Proteas’ bowlers did just enough to hold their nerve.

When it ended, South Africa had the win, Namibia had pushed them hard, and Pretorius had a landmark innings that will echo far beyond this Tri-Series.