Mulder slammed for not trying to break Lara's record

South African cricketer Wiaan Mulder’s decision to declare the innings at lunch while unbeaten on 367 against Zimbabwe, just 34 runs short of breaking Brian Lara’s world record for the highest individual score in Test cricket has stirred up considerable debate in the cricketing world.

Many former players and fans have expressed surprise and disappointment over what they describe as a missed opportunity for sporting history. Even Brian Lara himself reportedly told Mulder, who was the acting captain during the match, that he should have pursued the record.

Former Pakistan Test opener Sadiq Mohammad was particularly scathing in his criticism.

"I do not and will never agree with declaring an innings so close to breaking a world record," Sadiq told Nukta.

"That achievement is not just personal it’s a matter of national pride. A world record belongs to the country as much as to the player. When an athlete excels or breaks a record on the international stage it brings glory to the nation."

Sadiq emphasized the role national sports bodies play in developing athletes for greatness.

"Boards invest significant time and money in coaching, support staff and infrastructure. This is done not just for participation but for excellence for setting records, for bringing honor to the country."

"As a cricket lover I would have been proud to see the highest individual score in Test cricket come from South Africa. That could have been a historic moment of pride for every South African," he said.

He added that athletes train for years with one ultimate goal in mind not just for personal success but to raise their country’s flag high on the world stage.

"The same principle applies in cricket. Records should be chased not just for the individual but for the badge they wear on their chest."

Sadiq went on to say that players who prioritize personal reasoning over national interest in such defining moments should face consequences.

"When a historic milestone is within reach it must be achieved. It brings pride and joy to the nation for generations. Ignoring such an opportunity shows a lack of national spirit," he said.

He urged the South African Cricket Board to send a clear message:

"When a record is within reach, seize it."

"Now the world will always say that the highest Test score nearly belonged to a South African but was let go. That legacy could have been theirs," Sadiq lamented.

He also feared that the decision could invite speculation.

"Some may now question the motives behind this declaration. Comparisons might even be drawn with former Australian captain Mark Taylor who was once accused of accepting bribes to declare before surpassing Lara’s record. Similar questions could now be raised by the media both print and electronic."

"Frankly it would have been better if the player had been dismissed naturally rather than voluntarily giving away such an honor."

"He owes an apology not only to the South African public but to his own family for making such an unworthy and irrational decision," Sadiq concluded.