Respect Over Records : South Africa's captain Walks the Mark Taylor Way

On July 7, 2025, in Bulawayo, the South African stand-in skipper played the innings of his life—367 not out off 334 balls against Zimbabwe, studded with 49 fours and 4 sixes. With South Africa cruising at 626/5, Mulder stood just 33 runs short of Brian Lara’s unbeaten 400*, the highest individual score in Test history.

But instead of chasing the summit, he declared.

“It was time to bowl—and that 400 belongs to Lara,” Mulder said, choosing legacy over limelight.

Mark Taylor’s Salute: A Captain Recognizes Another

The decision drew admiration from across the cricketing world—including a heartfelt tribute from former Australian captain Mark Taylor, who famously declared on 334 not out in 1998, equalling Sir Donald Bradman’s record.

Speaking exclusively to this Reporter, Taylor said, “I would like to congratulate Wiaan on firstly his impressive knock but also his declaration, which by the looks of it was based on what he feels was best for the team and winning the match. That must be the primary goal of every captain. Personal goals and milestones are no doubt part of cricket but in my opinion should always be secondary to the team’s best interest—Results first and milestones second!”

Reflecting on his own moment in Peshawar, Taylor adde, “I was fortunate enough some 27 years ago to bat for 2 days and found myself on the same score as the great Don Bradman (334). I’m glad that I declared overnight on day two to share the Australian record with him at that time. The fact that people still ask me today about my innings in Peshawar in 1998 tells me I made the right decision.”

Two Men, One Message

Separated by decades, Mulder and Taylor made the same choice: to honor the game’s legacy over personal milestones. Their declarations weren’t just tactical—they were timeless.

In a world that often celebrates “more,” these two captains showed that sometimes, knowing when to stop is the mark of true greatness.