Lara said I should have gone for the record: Mulder on giving up chance to cross 400*
South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder’s impressive knock of 367 in the second Test against the West Indies will be remembered for a long time, but what’s more intriguing is the chance he let slip to break Brian Lara’s record of 400 in Test cricket. Mulder’s decision to declare the innings and give up the opportunity to become the first player to score 400* in Test cricket has sparked a lot of debate, with many cricket enthusiasts questioning his judgment. However, in a recent interview, Mulder revealed that he had a conversation with the legendary Brian Lara about his decision, and Lara’s response was quite surprising.
According to Mulder, Lara told him that he should have gone for the record. “He said to me I’m creating my own legacy,” Mulder added. This might come as a shock to many, as Lara is known for his aggressive approach to batting and his ability to dominate attacks. However, Mulder’s decision to declare was motivated by a desire to give his bowlers a chance to take 10 wickets and win the match, rather than chasing a personal milestone.
Mulder’s decision to declare was a bold move, as it meant giving up the chance to become the first player to score 400* in Test cricket. However, he believes that he made the right decision, and that his team’s interests were more important than his personal achievement. “I still believe I did the right thing,” he said in the interview.
Mulder’s innings was an impressive one, as he batted through the entire day and night, scoring 367* off 501 balls. His partnership with Quinton de Kock was crucial in setting up the match, as they added 163 runs for the fourth wicket. Mulder’s knock was marked by his ability to rotate the strike and play patiently, as he converted his start into a massive innings.
Mulder’s decision to declare was also motivated by the fact that his team was in a strong position, having set a target of 346 runs for the West Indies. He believed that his bowlers were capable of taking 10 wickets and winning the match, and that giving up the chance to score 400* was a small price to pay for the opportunity to win the match.
In the end, Mulder’s decision to declare proved to be the right one, as his team went on to win the match by an innings and 229 runs. The victory was a significant one for South Africa, as it helped them to take a 2-0 lead in the series and gave them a chance to win the series 2-0.
Mulder’s innings was also a testament to his growing reputation as a batsman. He has been impressive in his brief career so far, and his ability to score big runs has been a key part of South Africa’s success. His partnership with De Kock was particularly impressive, as they added 163 runs for the fourth wicket and set up the match for their team.
In conclusion, Mulder’s decision to declare and give up the chance to score 400* was a bold one, but ultimately the right one. His team’s interests were more important than his personal achievement, and his decision to declare proved to be the right one in the end. Lara’s response to Mulder’s decision was surprising, but it shows that even the greats can have differing opinions on the game.
Mulder’s innings was an impressive one, and his ability to score big runs has been a key part of South Africa’s success. His partnership with De Kock was particularly impressive, as they added 163 runs for the fourth wicket and set up the match for their team.
The cricket world will continue to debate Mulder’s decision to declare and give up the chance to score 400*, but one thing is certain – his innings will be remembered for a long time, and his decision to declare proved to be the right one in the end.
Source: https://x.com/ESPNcricinfo/status/1943485392692613140
