• Matthew Breetzke smashed a tremendous century in the 2nd ODI of the tri-series against New Zealand.

  • Breetzke became the fourth South African to score a ODI hundred on debut.

Fans erupt as South Africa’s debutant Matthew Breetzke hits maiden century in 2nd ODI against New Zealand | Pakistan Tri-Series 2025
Matthew Breetzke hits a ton on ODI debut (Image Source: X)

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In the second ODI of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first against South Africa. The Proteas, looking to make a mark in the series, fielded four debutants – Eathan Bosch, Mihlali Mpongwana, Matthew Breetzke, and Senuran Muthusamy.

Early setback for South Africa

South Africa started cautiously but suffered an early setback when captain Temba Bavuma was dismissed with the team score at 37 runs. Bavuma’s departure put pressure on the Proteas’ batting unit, but debutant Matthew Breetzke and Jason Smith steadied the innings with a solid partnership.

Brilliant partnership between Matthew Breetzke and Jason Smith

Breetzke and Smith built a 93-run stand for the second wicket, counterattacking the Kiwi bowlers. Smith played a handy knock of 41 runs before being dismissed, followed shortly by Kyle Verreynne, who could only manage a single run. However, Breetzke stood firm and continued his onslaught from one end.

Breetzke smashes century on ODI debut

The moment of the match came when Breetzke reached a century on his ODI debut in the 41st over. Facing William O’Rourke, Breetzke cut a short and wide delivery past backward point for a boundary, bringing up his hundred in style. As the ball raced to the fence, Breetzke removed his helmet, took in the applause from the dressing room, and acknowledged the crowd with his bat raised high. With this milestone, Breetzke became the fourth South African cricketer to score a century on ODI debut, joining an elite list of players.

South African players with a century on ODI debut

  • Colin Ingram vs Zimbabwe (2010)
  • Temba Bavuma vs Ireland (2016)
  • Reeza Hendricks vs Sri Lanka (2018)
  • Matthew Breetzke vs New Zealand (2025)

Also READ: South Africa names Anrich Nortje’s replacement for Champions Trophy 2025

Breetzke registers highest ODI score on debut

Breetzke didn’t stop at 100. He continued his brilliant stroke play and went past 126 runs, setting the record for the highest individual score on ODI debut for South Africa. He eventually reached the 150-run milestone before getting out and cementing his name as one of the most promising young batters for the Proteas.

Following Breetzke’s dismissal, South Africa stood strong at 263/4, thanks to Breetzke’s heroic innings. With a formidable total in sight, the Proteas looked set to challenge New Zealand in the chase.

Here is how fans reacted:

Also READ: Pakistan ODI tri-series 2025: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, New Zealand, South Africa, USA & other countries

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AKSHAT GAUR
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