Okay, cricket fans, it’s time to talk about the name that’s been appearing on every scoreboard, in every WhatsApp group, and is most certainly on the minds of Zimbabwe’s bowling attack: Wiaan Mulder. South Africa’s stand-in skipper didn’t just score some runs — he broke records with an unbeaten 367 in Bulawayo — but beyond that ridiculous triple ton, just how much do you know about him? Believe it or not, Mulder is much more than just magnificent cover drives and captain’s grit. From teenage debuts to batting with a busted finger — here are 5 crazy facts about Mulder you may have missed.
He Showed Up for His First-Class Debut… in School Uniform
No, really. While most of us were stressed about our math exams at 18, Mulder was claiming 7 wickets for the Highveld Lions — in his first-ever first-class game. And he showed up wearing his St Stithians College kit. So, not just a nice story- this is superhero origin story material. He grabbed 3 wickets in the first innings, and 4 in the second like he was late for a physics lesson, and you could tell even then you weren’t just seeing another kid with a lot of talent – he was built differently.
ODI Debut at 19 — and He’s Still Flying Under the Radar
Mulder made his ODI debut for the Proteas in 2017 against Bangladesh, other than the fact that he left school just before his debut. Barely did anything with the bat (2 runs), and his form with the bat hasn’t improved much, other than he bowled well – 1/32 from 8 overs. He has played 25 ODIs, scored 276 runs, and scored 2 fifties. He has taken 22 wickets in 25 ODIs – not bad considering he keeps bouncing from format to format and has never been a first-choice player.
How Mulder Lit Up the 2016 U-19 World Cup
Let’s rewind to 2016 — Mulder was leading the bowling charts for South Africa at the U-19 World Cup in Bangladesh. He bagged 11 wickets in just 5 games, averaging 10.63 with the ball. His best? Even in an 11th-place playoff, Mulder meant business — dismantling New Zealand U-19s with a fiery 4/14. Now, sure, that’s not the most glamorous match in the tournament. But it showed his hunger to perform — even when there was “nothing to play for.” That mindset? That’s the kind that wins you Test matches someday.
Batted with a Broken Finger – Because Why Not?
When Mulder got struck on his right middle fingertip by Lahiru Kumara while playing against Sri Lanka in Durban in 2024, it was thought to be broken. Most players would have sat down after this injury. Not Mulder. Not only did he come out to bat in the second innings and cameo at No. 3 – he batted with a broken finger. And yes, he made 15 which no one remembers. The message was – I am here for the team – no matter what! His triple-century is only the batting equivalent of his display of resilience.
Wiaan Mulder isn’t just South Africa’s latest batting sensation — he’s the complete package. Grit, leadership, untapped all-rounder potential, and a mental edge thanks to a strong support system. His 367 might be the highlight reel moment, but behind it is a journey filled with quiet battles, bold choices, and some seriously cool backstories.
Let us know — did you know these facts about Mulder? And who’s the next rising star you’ve got your eyes on?
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