Dewald Brevis Shatters Records on Test Debut Against Zimbabwe

Dewald Brevis Makes a Historic Test Debut

On Saturday, June 28, South Africa's emerging cricket star, Dewald Brevis, made a remarkable debut in Test cricket, setting a world record during the match against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Known for his explosive batting style in limited-overs cricket, especially during his time with the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, Brevis brought that same fearless attitude to the longer format. Batting at the sixth position, the 21-year-old scored a swift 51 runs off just 41 balls, achieving his first Test fifty in a mere 38 deliveries — the fastest ever by a debutant in their initial innings.

This incredible achievement surpasses all previous records in this category. New Zealand's Tim Southee had previously scored a fifty in 29 balls on debut in 2008, while England's Jacob Bethell reached his in 37 balls earlier in 2024, but both accomplished this in their second innings. Brevis, however, set the record during his very first appearance at the crease in Test cricket.

Partnering with fellow debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Brevis contributed significantly to a 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Pretorius, a 19-year-old left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman, also made headlines by scoring a remarkable century on his debut, reaching the milestone in just 112 balls, making him the youngest South African and the fifth-youngest player overall to achieve this feat in their first Test.

The scoring spree continued as all-rounder Corbin Bosch added to South Africa's total, finishing the day unbeaten on 100 runs from 124 balls, helping the team to a commanding score of 418 for 9 by the end of Day 1. Under the leadership of stand-in captain Keshav Maharaj, South Africa dominated the match.

Brevis's explosive innings not only set new records but also heralded the emergence of an exciting new talent in Test cricket. His fearless style and innate skill suggest promising times ahead for South African cricket.