South African opener Matthew Breetzke made history on Monday by becoming the first batter to score over 150 runs on his ODI debut. Breetzke’s outstanding knock of 150 runs off 148 balls, featuring 11 fours and five sixes, shattered the previous record held by West Indies’ D.L. Haynes, who scored 148 on his debut in 1978.
Breetzke also surpassed the South African record for the highest ODI debut score, which was previously held by Colin Ingram with 124 runs against Zimbabwe in 2010.
Highest scores on ODI debut (updated list):
| Player | Runs | Team | Opposition | Ground | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MP Breetzke | 150 | South Africa | New Zealand | Lahore | 10-Feb-25 |
| DL Haynes | 148 | West Indies | Australia | St John’s | 22-Feb-78 |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | 127 | Afghanistan | Ireland | Abu Dhabi | 21-Jan-21 |
| CA Ingram | 124 | South Africa | Zimbabwe | Bloemfontein | 15-Oct-10 |
| MS Chapman | 124 | Hong Kong | U.A.E. | ICCA Dubai | 16-Nov-15 |
| MJ Guptill | 122 | New Zealand | West Indies | Auckland | 10-Jan-09 |
Breetzke’s rise through the ranks
Known for his composure under pressure, Breetzke’s cricketing journey started early. He was selected for Grey High’s first team at 14 and became a key part of South Africa’s Under-19 team, scoring over 1,000 runs in 25 youth ODIs. His talent was on display during the 2018 Under-19 World Cup, where he was South Africa’s second-highest run-getter.
Domestic success and international breakthrough
Breetzke’s consistency earned him a place in South Africa’s Emerging Squad for the 2018 Sri Lanka tour. His domestic performance peaked during the 2022-23 CSA four-day competition, where he was the top run-scorer with three centuries and four fifties, averaging 60.58. His ODI debut in the second match against New Zealand marked a major milestone, highlighting his transition from domestic cricket to international stardom.
IPL 2025 debut with Lucknow Super Giants
Breetzke’s exceptional form did not go unnoticed as Lucknow Super Giants acquired him for INR 57 lakhs for the 2025 IPL season. His presence is expected to bolster their batting lineup, making him a player to watch out for in the upcoming season.
