Matthew Breetzke Smashes 47-Year Record with Stunning 150 on ODI Debut
South African opener Matthew Breetzke etched his name in cricket history on Monday by breaking a 47-year-old record for the highest score on debut in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). The 26-year-old right-hander blasted an incredible 150 runs in a Tri-Nations fixture against New Zealand at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, surpassing the long-standing record of West Indies legend Desmond Haynes.
Despite his heroic effort, Breetzke’s performance came in a losing cause, as New Zealand chased down South Africa’s 304/6 with eight balls to spare, thanks to a match-winning 133 from Kane Williamson*.
Breaking a Record That Stood for Nearly Five Decades
Before Breetzke’s stunning knock, the record for the highest score on ODI debut belonged to Desmond Haynes, who had scored 148 for West Indies against Australia in Antigua in 1978. The previous best mark for a South African debutant was 124, set by Colin Ingram against Zimbabwe in 2010.
Now, Breetzke stands alone at the top, marking his first-ever ODI appearance with a historic performance.
A Knock to Remember
Walking out to open the innings, Breetzke faced 148 deliveries, smashing 11 fours and 5 sixes in a composed yet dominant display. He anchored the innings for 46 overs, taking on New Zealand’s attack while battling challenging conditions.
“It hasn’t sunk in yet, and I’m a bit tired,” Breetzke admitted after the match. “The pitch was a bit tacky, and (New Zealand seamer Will) O’Rourke was really tough to face. My mindset was just to bat as long as possible and give myself a chance at the end.”
His effort helped South Africa post 304/6 in 50 overs, a seemingly strong total, but New Zealand’s chase proved too strong. Williamson, leading from the front, guided his team home with a brilliant unbeaten 133, securing a six-wicket victory for the Kiwis.
A Rising Star, But Not in the Champions Trophy Squad
Breetzke’s spectacular debut comes despite not being included in South Africa’s Champions Trophy squad. The Proteas are fielding a weakened squad for this series, missing several first-choice batters. However, with performances like this, Breetzke has made a powerful case for future selection in South Africa’s ODI setup.
For now, though, his record-breaking innings will be remembered as one of the greatest debuts in ODI history.
