Matthew Breetzke Sets World Record with Stunning 150 on ODI Debut

South African opening batter Matthew Breetzke made history on Monday, becoming the first cricketer to score 150 in his debut One Day International (ODI) match during a thrilling encounter against New Zealand in the ongoing tri-nation series.

The 26-year-old's extraordinary knock of 150 runs off 148 balls shattered the previous record set by West Indies' Desmond Haynes, who scored 148 against Australia in 1978. Breetzke's achievement places him in the record books as the highest run-scorer in an ODI debut, a feat that has remained unbeaten for nearly half a century.

A DEBUT TO REMEMBER

Although Breetzke is not part of the South African squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy, his performance in this match was nothing short of spectacular. He was one of four South Africans making their ODI debuts, a game in which the team saw seven new faces joining the squad ahead of the Champions Trophy later this week.

Breetzke's explosive innings helped South Africa post a formidable total of 304/6 after New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl. Despite the early loss of captain Temba Bavuma (20) during the powerplay, Breetzke dominated the bowling attack, constructing a vital 93-run partnership with Jason Smith (41) before accelerating the run rate.

The debutant's flair for aggressive hitting, especially on the offside, was evident as he forged another crucial 131-run stand with Wiaan Mulder, who contributed 64 runs off 60 balls. Breetzke reached his century in 128 balls with a stunning square-cut boundary off fast bowler Will O'Rourke, and just 20 balls later, he surpassed Haynes’ long-standing record.

BREAKING RECORDS AND SETTING MILESTONES

With his 150, Breetzke not only set a new benchmark but also became the fourth South African to score a century on Ohis DI debut, following in the footsteps of Colin Ingram, Temba Bavuma, and Reeza Hendricks.

The innings came to an end when Breetzke, who had struck 11 boundaries and five sixes, misjudged a slower ball from Matt Henry and was caught at mid-off. Despite his dismissal, South Africa had already put themselves in a strong position to challenge New Zealand.

NEW ZEALAND’S EFFORTS IN THE FIELD

In reply, New Zealand faced challenges with the ball. O'Rourke (2-72) and Henry (2-59) both picked up two wickets each, but Ben Sears, who had been hammered for 20 runs in one over by Breetzke, finished with disappointing figures of 0-65.

The match also saw a forced change in the New Zealand squad as opening batter Rachin Ravindra was replaced by Devon Conway. Ravindra had sustained a blow to the forehead while fielding during New Zealand's dominant 78-run victory over Pakistan in the first match of the series on Saturday. Ravindra was rested for the second match to recover from the injury sustained when he misjudged a catch at deep mid-wicket.

CONCLUSION

Breetzke’s breathtaking performance not only led South Africa to a competitive total but also etched his name into cricketing history with a record-breaking debut. As South Africa gears up for the Champions Trophy, Breetzke's record-setting knock serves as a timely reminder of the exciting young talent emerging in the international cricket scene.