Wiaan Mulder's recent declaration at 367 against Zimbabwe, just 33 runs short of Brian Lara's coveted world record of 400, has ignited a storm of debate in the cricket world. While some have lauded the South African captain's selfless act, others, like West Indies legend Chris Gayle, have strongly criticized the decision, deeming it a "big time" blunder.

Mulder's record-breaking innings, the highest ever by a South African batter, saw him surpass Hashim Amla's previous best of 311*. He reached his triple century in a mere 297 balls, the second-fastest in Test history. Leading the team for the first time, Mulder's declaration at 626/5 came as a shock to many who anticipated a challenge to Lara's long-standing record.

Mulder explained his decision by stating that he believed the team had scored enough runs and needed to bowl. He also expressed his respect for Brian Lara, stating that the legend deserved to keep the record. Mulder revealed that South Africa's head coach, Shukri Conrad, had also suggested that he "let the legends keep the really big scores". "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.

However, Chris Gayle, known for his aggressive batting style and fondness for records, strongly disagreed with Mulder's reasoning. Speaking on talkSPORT, the "Universe Boss" didn't mince words, stating, "If I could get the chance to get 400, I would get 400". Gayle, who himself narrowly missed the mark with a 333 against Sri Lanka in 2010, felt Mulder had panicked under pressure. "Maybe he panicked, he didn't know what to do," Gayle said. "If you want to be a legend, how are you going to become a legend? Records come with being a legend".

Gayle dismissed any suggestion that the quality of the opposition, Zimbabwe (ranked 12th), should influence such a decision. "It doesn't matter the opponent, if you get 100 against any team, that's a Test century. If you get a double or triple, 400, that's Test cricket. That's the ultimate game," Gayle stated. He further added, "Come on, youngster, you've blown it big time!".

The declaration allowed South Africa to dismiss Zimbabwe twice and win the match by an innings and 236 runs. However, the debate continues to rage: Was Mulder's decision a display of admirable selflessness and respect, or a missed opportunity to achieve immortality in the record books?. Chris Gayle has made his stance very clear: Mulder "panicked and blundered".