Matthew Breetzke’s 150 Sets A New South African ODI Record

In the tri-series match against New Zealand in Lahore, South Africa scored a respectable 304 for 6, led by rookie Matthew Breetzke’s outstanding 150. The team added 108 runs in the last 10 overs to finish strongly, helped by Wiaan Mulder’s 64.

Mulder joined Breetzke once the platform was established, and the two of them held off the New Zealand attack with a 131-run partnership for the fourth wicket. After reaching his century off 128 balls, Breetzke quickly accelerated to reach his greatest individual score on debut of 150 off 148 balls, hitting 11 fours and five sixes. A change in momentum was threatened by his dismissal in the 46th over, caught off Matt Henry, but Mulder made sure the runs continued to flow.

At Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the 26-year-old opener amassed a dominant 148-ball innings, surpassing the previous highest score on an ODI debut—148 for the West Indies against Australia in 1978. When South Africa was put in to bat, his knock, which included 11 fours and five sixes, gave them a solid base.

Despite losing skipper Temba Bavuma early to a crisp bouncer from William O’Rourke, South Africa got off to a solid start after being brought in to bat. After that, Breetzke and Jason Smith (41), who stitched a vital 93-run partnership before Smith was run out by a Mitchell Santner throw, steadied the innings.

Four players made their debuts for South Africa, which was missing a number of important players because of injury and domestic T20 commitments.

The lower order hammered hard in the last overs, as Mulder’s five fours and six helped South Africa surpass 300 runs. Although O’Rourke (2 for 72) and Henry (2 for 59) were the best bowlers, New Zealand’s pacers faltered in the closing stages, and the team now faces a difficult run chase.

Rachin Ravindra was injured during New Zealand’s 78-run victory over Pakistan on Saturday, so Devon Conway was sent in to replace him.

The competition is being hosted by Pakistan, the third team in the tri-series, as a prelude to the Champions Trophy, which kicks off on February 19.

Short scores: New Zealand vs. South Africa 304/6 (Breetzke 150; Henry 2-59).