Follow UsLhuan-dre Pretorius is having quite a stellar start to his international career, with a stroke-filled half-century against Pakistan on his ODI debut in Faisalabad, on November 4 (Tuesday). The youngster also began his Test career with a bang, with a 160-ball 153 against Zimbabwe in July earlier this year.
Now, he’s started his 50-over career too in a similar fashion against a strong Pakistan outfit, getting to his half-century off 47 deliveries. The left-hander showed the same brand of attacking cricket he normally does, starting his ODI career with a plethora of boundaries against Naseem Shah, including two off the pacer’s first over.
The 19-year-old didn’t slow down against spin either, smashing off-spinner Salman Ali Agha for two fours and a six before bringing up his half-century with a single off Abrar Ahmed’s bowling. In doing so, the left-hander became the youngest-ever ODI half-centurion for South Africa, breaking Jacques Kallis’ 29-year-old record.
Youngest to score 50 for South Africa in ODIs
19 y 222 d - Lhuan dre Pretorius vs PAK, Faisalabad, 2025*
20 y 93 d - Jacques Kallis vs ENG, Durban, 1996
20 y 326 d - Quinton de Kock vs PAK, Abu Dhabi, 2013
20 y 353 d - Quinton de Kock vs IND, Johannesburg, 2013
20 y 356 d - Quinton de Kock vs IND, Durban, 2013
Earlier this year, at the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rajasthan Royals had signed the 19-year-old as an injury replacement for Nitish Rana, possibly as a long-term find for the franchise. The left-hander is most likely to be retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season.