Matthew Breetzke made a sensational start to his ODI career, scoring a brilliant century on debut during the New Zealand vs South Africa clash in the Pakistan Tri-Series 2025 on Monday, February 10.
The 26 year old became only the fourth batter in the history of South African cricket to score a century on his ODI debut.
Opening the innings alongside Temba Bavuma, the right-hander showcased remarkable composure, keeping the scoreboard ticking with smart strike rotation and timely boundaries.
Matthew Breetzke surpasses Colin Ingram’s record of Highest ODI score by a South African debutant
Breetzke reached his maiden ODI hundred in 128 balls, becoming only the fourth South African to achieve this milestone, following in the footsteps of Colin Ingram, Temba Bavuma, and Reeza Hendricks. In the process, he also set a new record for the highest ODI score by a South African debutant, surpassing Colin Ingram’s 124.
Also read About Cricket
Breetzke smashed 150 off 148 deliveries at a strike rate of 101.35, smashing 11 boundaries and 5 huge sixes across the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The opener was going strong until he was dismissed by Matt Henry in the 46th over of the first innings.
Matthew Breetzke to Represent Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025
Notably, Matthew Breetzke got major recognition after his stunning performances in the domestic circuit. He recently bagged his maiden IPL 2025 Contract with Lucknow Super Giants who welcomed him to their squad for INR 75 Lakhs for the upcoming 18th season of the Indian Premier League.
Reflecting on his fiery knock and debut match, Matthew Breetzke said, “I am a bit tired but I just hope we can get the win, that’s the only thing in my mind. It was very tricky this morning, the pitch was quite tacky and O’Rourke was really tough to face. My mindset was to just bat as long as possible. (Defendable total?) Hope so, it’s obviously going to get easier to bat as the day goes on. If we can strike in the powerplay and squeeze in the middle, then hope we’ve got enough.”
Talking about the match, South Africa posted 304 runs on the board at the loss of 6 wickets in 50 overs as Jason Smith and Wiaan Mulder added 41 and 64 respectively to the team’s total. The Kiwis will have to buckle up to chase the total. The good news for the the New Zealand team is the comeback of their attacking opening batter Devon Conway. It will be interesting to see how the team chases the high total in 50 overs.
