“Could’ve Broken Lara’s Record, But…” – Wiaan Mulder Leaves Fans Shocked With Declaration at 367*
Wiaan Mulder stops at 367*, says he declared out of respect for Brian Lara's legendary 400-run record.
Wiaan Mulder stunned fans around the world by walking away from a shot at cricket immortality. Batting on 367 not out, the South African captain decided to declare the innings during the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.
The decision came when he was just 34 runs away from breaking Brian Lara’s world record score of 400 in Test cricket.
Mulder, who had already created history by becoming the highest scorer for South Africa in Test cricket, explained his decision with honesty and grace.
Mulder Respects Lara’s Legacy
Speaking to SuperSport after the match, Mulder said he always believed some records should stay with the legends of the game.
“First I thought we have enough and we need to bowl. Secondly, Brian Lara is a legend, he got 400 against England and for someone of that stature to keep that record is pretty special,” Mulder said.
He added, “I was speaking to Shuks [coach Shukri Conrad] and he kind of said to me as well: ‘Let the legends keep the really big scores’. I think if I get the chance again, I’d probably do the same thing.”
Fans Divided, But Mulder Stands Firm
The decision sparked huge debate online. While some fans praised Mulder for his humility, others felt he should’ve gone for the record.
Former players like Dale Steyn and Tabraiz Shamsi openly said he should have continued. But Mulder stood by his call, believing South Africa already had enough runs at 625 for 6.
At the time of declaration, his 367* was the fifth-highest score in Test history and the most by any visiting player away from home.
A Special Moment in South African Cricket
Mulder didn’t leave the field without a big milestone. He broke Hashim Amla’s 311 to become South Africa’s highest individual scorer in Tests.
He also became the first South African captain to score a triple hundred and just the ninth overall in Test history.
Mulder’s knock will be remembered for more than just runs. In a game obsessed with records, he made a choice that few would dare, and that too, in the middle of a record-breaking high.
