Just four months after becoming South Africa’s youngest-ever T20I player, 18-year-old left-arm quick Kwena Maphaka has added another remarkable achievement to his resume. Maphaka, who has been generating buzz for his pace and potential throughout the year, made his ODI debut against Pakistan on December 19, 2024, in Cape Town, at the age of 18 years and 255 days. This makes him South Africa’s youngest-ever ODI debutant, breaking a 25-year-old record.

The previous record was held by fast bowler Victor Mpitsang, who made his ODI debut against the West Indies in 1999 at the age of 18 years and 314 days. Another Proteas player, Paul Adams, also played an ODI for South Africa before turning 19, debuting in 1996 against England at 18 years and 364 days.

With Kagiso Rabada resting for the match, Maphaka got his opportunity to shine and made an immediate impact by claiming the crucial wicket of Pakistan opener Saim Ayub, putting the visitors under early pressure.

Watch The Wicket Of Saim Ayub ⬇️⬇️

Youngest ODI debutants for South Africa:

• 18y 255d – Kwena Maphaka vs PAK in 2024
• 18y 314d – Victor Mpitsang vs WI in 1999
• 18y 364d – Paul Adams vs ENG in 1996

Playing XIs South Africa: Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma(c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Bjorn Fortuin, Kwena Maphaka, Tabraiz Shamsi