South African opener Matthew Breetzke made a remarkable impact on his ODI debut, achieving a stunning century against New Zealand during the tri-series matches held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. In a crucial effort to secure a place in the Proteas' Champions Trophy squad, Breetzke delivered an impressive performance, amassing 150 runs from 148 balls. With the deadline for squad modifications for the Champions Trophy approaching on February 12, Breetzke has certainly placed the South African selectors in a challenging position.

At the age of 26, he became the fourth South African player to score a century on his ODI debut, reaching the milestone in 128 balls with a boundary. He joins the ranks of Colin Ingram, Temba Bavuma, and Reeza Hendricks in this distinguished group.

Breetzke continued to excel, enhancing his strike rate to achieve 150 runs in quick succession. Although it initially seemed unlikely that he would surpass the record for the most ODI runs on debut, held by West Indies' Desmond Haynes with 148 runs against Australia in 1978, Breetzke embraced the challenge. After reaching his century, he required just an additional 20 balls to break Haynes' long-standing record.

Highest individual scores on ODI debut

Matthew Breetzke (South Africa) - 150 against New Zealand (Lahore, 2024)

Desmond Haynes (West Indies) - 148 against Australia (St. John’s, 1978)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan) - 127 against Ireland (Abu Dhabi, 2021)

Mark Chapman (New Zealand) - 124* against UAE (Dubai, 2015)

Colin Ingram (South Africa) - 124 against Zimbabwe (Bloemfontein, 2010)

Fueled by Breetzke's record-setting performance, South Africa compiled a formidable total of 304-6 in their allotted 50 overs after New Zealand's captain, Mitchell Santner, won his second consecutive toss and opted to field.

Breetzke's innings concluded at 150 when he misjudged a slower delivery from Matt Henry and was caught at mid-off.

In their opening match of the tri-series, South Africa included four debutants in their lineup, including Breetzke.

After being invited to bat first, South Africa lost their captain Temba Bavuma (20) during the power play. However, Breetzke remained steadfast, demonstrating remarkable composure as he formed a 93-run partnership with Jason Smith (41), another player who was overlooked for the Champions Trophy.

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