Mulder reveals reasons why he left Lara's record untouched

Stand-in South Africa captain Wiaan Mulder has revealed the reasons why he decided not to chase history and attempt to break Brian Lara's record for the highest score in Test cricket.

Mulder cruised to 367 not out at lunch on the second day of the second Test against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo and had Lara's score of 400 not out within his sights with South Africa in command.

But Mulder decided against chasing the record and instead opted to declare the Proteas first innings at 626/5, leaving Lara's record for the highest score in Test cricket to remain.

Mulder disclosed the reasons behind his decision when speaking at stumps on the second day.

"You never know what is destined for me, but Brian Lara keeping that record (of the highest score in Tests) is exactly the way it should be" Mulder said to Shaun Pollock in the post-match interview, revealing the reason behind the declaration.

"I thought we got enough from the new-ball and secondly, Brian Lara is a legend.

"He got 400 against England - for someone of that stature, to keep that record is pretty special. I think if I get the chance again, I will probably do the same thing.

"Speaking to Shuks (Shukri Conrad), he kind of said to me 'alright listen, let the legends keep the really big scores.'"

Proteas head coach Shukri Conrad was in awe of the iconic knock from his stand-in captain.

“Wiaan’s innings was nothing short of extraordinary. Being the captain, then batting at No.3 where he had to absorb early pressure and face the new-ball, which he did with immense composure and control - it was unbelievable," Conrad said.

“The way he constructed his innings, session by session, was a masterclass in temperament and shot selection.

“It’s the kind of performance that anchors a team and sets the tone for the entire match. We’re incredibly proud of what he’s achieved today.”

South Africa bundled out Zimbabwe for 170, making them follow-on after Mulder's knock set up the platform nicely for the visitors.

The current ICC World Test Championship holders are already leading the two-match series 1-0, after beating Zimbabwe by 328 runs in the first Test.