Lhuan-dre Pretorius Claims Highest-Ever Individual T20 Score, Surpassing Chris Gayle's 13-Year-Old Record

A new 'Universe Boss' might just be emerging on the cricketing horizon as 20-year-old South African prodigy, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, delivered a performance for the ages today, October 3, 2026. The left-handed opener hammered an astonishing unbeaten 188 runs off just 79 balls for the Titans against the Knights in a CSA T20 Challenge match, obliterating Chris Gayle's long-standing record for the highest individual score in men's T20 cricket. India vs Pakistan, Live Streaming and Free Telecast of Men's Asian Games 2026 Cricket Gold Medal in India.

Lhuan-dre Pretorious Breaks T20 Record

BATSMAN OF THE MATCH. 🏏🔥

Congratulations to Lhuan-dre Pretorius on a sensational 188* against the Flexbrands Knights. An unbeaten knock that sets a new T20 record! 🔥

A record-breaking performance. 👏#WhereLegendsRise #YesPlayPro20 pic.twitter.com/nj8TKK0BEw

— Momentum Multiply Titans (@Titans_Cricket) October 2, 2026

Gayle's monumental 175* for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against Pune Warriors India in the 2013 Indian Premier League (IPL) had stood unchallenged for 13 years, a benchmark of power-hitting prowess. However, Pretorius's breathtaking assault, featuring 15 fours and 13 sixes, has now rewritten the record books, signaling a generational shift in T20 batting.

A Record-Breaking Onslaught

Pretorius's innings was a masterclass in aggressive yet controlled hitting. He wasted no time in asserting his dominance, reaching his half-century in a mere 24 balls. The acceleration continued unabated, as he brought up his century in just 40 deliveries, showcasing an incredible strike rate. His relentless attack left the Knights' bowlers flustered and the crowd at Bloemfontein enthralled, as he steadily chipped away at Gayle's formidable record.

The young Proteas star’s knock culminated in 188 not out, secured in 79 deliveries. While he came close to becoming the first player to score a T20 double-century, he ultimately ran out of overs with the Titans finishing on a commanding 3-267. This performance is a testament to his burgeoning talent and formidable form, having recently scored a fiery 101 off 53 balls for South Africa in a T20 International against Namibia just last month. Yuzvendra Chahal Announces First-Class Retirement, Sets Sights on India ODI and T20I Return.

The Fallout from the 'Gayle Storm'

Chris Gayle's 175* against Pune Warriors India on April 23, 2013, was widely considered an unbreakable feat. That innings, achieved at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, also saw Gayle record the fastest century in T20 history, reaching the three-figure mark in a mere 30 balls. His innings was adorned with 13 fours and an astonishing 17 sixes, propelling RCB to a then-record T20 total of 263/5.

Highest Individual Scores in Men's T20 Cricket

Pretorius, already a part of the Rajasthan Royals squad in the IPL, albeit with limited opportunities so far, has put the cricketing world on notice with this historic achievement. His performance is a stark reminder of the ever-evolving nature of T20 cricket and the immense talent emerging from South Africa.

This record-breaking innings from Lhuan-dre Pretorius marks a significant moment in the history of T20 cricket, setting a new standard for individual brilliance and signaling a thrilling future for the sport.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2026 09:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).