Wiaan Mulder says he has “no regrets” about ending his innings on 367* against Zimbabwe – even if some fans wanted him to chase Brian Lara’s world-record 400*.

Mulder declared the innings closed on 626-5 at lunch on day two of the second Test in Bulawayo, with South Africa going on to win by an innings and 236 runs on day three.

The Proteas all-rounder’s decision sparked debate across the cricket world, with Lara himself suggesting Mulder should have gone for it. But Mulder remains unapologetic.

“A lot of people are crucifying me for not going for 400,” Mulder told SportsBoom.co.za. “But 367 in a Test is special. The team comes first and that’s how it should be. It was never about the record – it was about winning the game.”

MULDER: Lara told me I should have gone for the record

The Zimbabwe series was memorable for more than just that innings. Mulder was unexpectedly handed the captaincy in the second Test after Keshav Maharaj’s injury, becoming the 18th man to lead the Proteas in Tests.

“Captaining my country was honestly a dream come true,” he said. “It was not something I thought would happen this early. I’m still finding my feet, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Despite the brief tenure, Mulder’s poise and maturity in leadership didn’t go unnoticed. The door remains open for a more permanent leadership role in the future – something he admits he would welcome.

“Hopefully I can captain the Proteas again.”

Mulder was also encouraged by the performances of several teammates, including Dewald Brevis, Lhuandre Pretorius, Codi Yusuf and Corbin Bosch.

“There were a lot of young guys who stood up and delivered,” he said. “The future is bright – they belong here.”

Now, after a season that has seen him lead the Proteas, dominate with the bat and spark a global debate over records versus results, Mulder says he’s focused on what really matters.

“I want to be remembered as a good person and a team man. My spot in the team is temporary. What I achieve on the field doesn’t really bother me, as long as I contribute positively.”

Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket