South Africa's Tristan Stubbs enters record books smashing triple century in first-class cricket

Star South African wicketkeeper batter Tristan Stubbs made history after he became the 11th batter to score a first-class triple-century in South Africa, the eighth since readmission. Having scored two centuries in five games, Stubbs has become the leading run-scorer in Division 1 of the domestic competition. 

It is interesting to note that the 23-year-old batted for eight hours and 19 minutes to face 372 balls for his 302* runs. Representing Warriors, Stubbs’ side declared on a score of 517 with the loss of just three wickets against Kwa-Zulu Natal Inland. 

Notably, both sides are not in contention to make the finals of the tournament, as Inland occupy last place in the standings with Warriors claiming fifth place. The triple century will help Stubbs make his way into South Africa’s Test squad. The youngster made his Test debut against India in the New Year's Test in January 2024 and was even part of South Africa A, which toured Sri Lanka in July 2023.

Tristan Stubbs opted out of NZ Tests for SA20 2024

Notably, the 24-year-old was also one of the players who was obliged to participate in the SA20 and opted out of the Test series in New Zealand. The star player had a season to remember in the SA20, winning back-to-back titles with Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Stubbs finished the tournament as the leading run scorer with 301 runs to his name, including three half-centuries, and a strike rate of 168.15.

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With his performance, Tristan Stubbs could become an all-format player for South Africa. Already being a regular in T20I cricket, the 24-year-old will look to add to his repertoire in Test and ODI cricket as well.

Just like Test cricket, Stubbs has only played one ODI for South Africa so far, where he was dismissed after scoring six runs. For the side’s next assignment in the longest format, the Proteas will take on the West Indies for a two-game Test series in August, and only time will tell if Stubbs is included in the Proteas lineup for the longest format.