South African cricketer Wiaan Mulder’s decision to declare his innings at 367 not out, just short of Brian Lara’s world record of 400, has sparked strong criticism from West Indies legend Chris Gayle.
A Record Within Reach
Wiaan Mulder was on the cusp of making history in the second Test against Zimbabwe. He stood unbeaten on an incredible 367 runs, poised to challenge Brian Lara’s monumental Test record of 400 not out.
However, in a move that stunned many cricket observers, Mulder chose to declare the innings, bringing his opportunity to an end.
Mulder’s Unexpected Reasoning
After the declaration, Mulder explained his decision, stating his respect for the legendary Brian Lara. “Brian Lara is a legend, let’s be real,” Mulder said. “He got 401 or whatever it was against England. And for someone of that stature to keep that record is pretty special.”
This reasoning, while seemingly humble, left many questioning the strategic wisdom behind it.
Chris Gayle’s Blunt Assessment
Chris Gayle, known for his explosive batting and outspoken nature, did not mince words when discussing Mulder’s call. Speaking on talkSPORT, Gayle declared, “He panicked and he blundered, straight up.”
Gayle emphasized the rarity of such an opportunity. “I think it was an error from his side, not to try and go to get it,” he stated. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get 400 runs in a Test match. Come on, youngster, you’ve blown it big time!”
The Path to cricketing Legend
For Gayle, chasing records is an integral part of becoming a cricketing legend. “Come on, you’re on 367; automatically, you have to take a chance at the record,” Gayle urged. “If you want to be a legend, how are you going to become a legend? Records come with being a legend.”
Mulder’s triple century was only the second for a South African in Test history, following Hashim Amla’s 311 not out against England. Gayle reiterated that such moments are incredibly rare and should be maximized.
Test Cricket’s True Value
Gayle also dismissed any notion that the opposition, Zimbabwe, diminished the achievement. “It’s the same cricket, Test cricket,” he insisted. “Sometimes you can’t even get one run against a team like Zimbabwe if you want to put it that way.”
He concluded by stressing that any significant score in Test cricket, regardless of the opponent, holds immense value. “It doesn’t matter the opponent, if you get 100 against any team, that’s a Test century. If you get a double or triple, 400, that’s Test cricket. That’s the ultimate game.”
- Wiaan Mulder declared his innings at 367 not out, 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s Test record.
- Mulder cited respect for Lara as his reason for the declaration.
- Chris Gayle called the decision a “blunder” and a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” missed.
- Gayle believes chasing records is essential for a player to achieve legendary status.
Mulder’s decision will undoubtedly remain a talking point, highlighting the fine line between personal milestones and team strategy in professional cricket.
