Wiaan Mulder's recent decision to declare South Africa's innings at 626/5, while he was batting at an unbeaten 367, has stirred a significant debate in the cricket world. Mulder's score is the highest ever by a South African batter in Tests, surpassing Hashim Amla's previous record. It is also the fifth-highest individual score in Test history. However, what has truly captured the attention of fans and former cricketers alike is that he was just 33 runs short of breaking Brian Lara's all-time record of 400 not out.

Following the match, Mulder explained that his decision was rooted in respect for Brian Lara and a belief that "legends" should hold such significant records. He also felt that the team had scored enough runs and needed to start bowling. "Brian Lara is a legend," Mulder stated, adding, "For someone of that stature to keep that record is pretty special". He further mentioned a conversation with coach Shukri Conrad, who shared a similar sentiment about preserving such milestones for legends.

However, Mulder's choice has been met with mixed reactions. Some, like his coach, have supported his sportsmanship. Others, including West Indies legend Chris Gayle, have openly criticized the decision. Gayle described Mulder's declaration as a "blunder," arguing that he missed a golden opportunity to etch his name in the history books and "become a legend" himself.

England captain Ben Stokes also weighed in on the debate, acknowledging that Mulder would likely not get another chance to surpass Lara's record. Stokes admitted that while he respected Mulder's team-first mentality, opportunities to score 400 in a Test match are rare.

Now, in a recent development, Mulder has revealed his conversation with Brian Lara himself regarding the declaration. According to Mulder, the West Indies legend had a different perspective on the matter. "Now that things have settled a little bit, I've chatted a little bit to Brian Lara," Mulder said. "He said to me I'm creating my own legacy and I should have gone for it". Lara reportedly told Mulder that "records are there to be broken" and expressed his hope that if Mulder ever found himself in a similar position again, he should aim to score even more than 400.

Despite Lara's encouragement, Mulder maintains that he believes he made the right decision. He reiterates that respecting the game was his primary concern.

Mulder's declaration sparked a broader discussion about sportsmanship, the pursuit of individual records versus team goals, and the significance of respecting legends in the sport. While some argue that he should have seized the opportunity to break the record, others commend his selflessness and respect for cricketing history. This debate underscores the complexities and varying perspectives within the world of cricket, where individual ambition and team objectives often intersect.

Regardless of the differing opinions, Wiaan Mulder's innings will be remembered as a historic moment. His knock was the highest score by any batter in a Test match away from home. He also reached his triple century in just 297 balls, the second-fastest in Test history.