Muhammad Bulbulia’s century and a strong rearguard performance by Lethabo Phahlamohlaka helped South Africa U19 secure a dramatic draw with England U19 in the first Youth Test at Coetzenburg Oval in Stellenbosch.

Chasing 317 for victory, which was set when the tourists declared on 336-9, the hosts began well through their right-handed opener scoring 114 off 154 balls (13 fours).

But once Bulbulia, who scored 88 in the first innings, fell, three others followed quickly leaving the hosts in a precarious position on 236-8.

However, Phahlamohlaka defended 85 balls for an unbeaten 45 and Raeeq Daniels was also strong in defence seeing off 51 deliveries for his 24.

The Junior Proteas eventually ended on 295-9, just short of the target, though that had become a secondary objective behind survival after their quick loss of wickets. In the end, Martin Khumalo (nine not out) had to come out and face eight balls to also play his part in a thrilling draw.

The day had started with England batting on 275-8 and the visitors managed to stretch their lead thanks in the main to Jack Home’s 60* off 69 balls (five fours, two sixes).

Spinner Chad Mason claimed the only wicket to fall when he removed Tazeem Ali for 19 to end with figures of 5-111.

The South Africans made a good start to the chase by reaching 47-0, before Jorich Van Schalkwyk fell to Man of the Match Farhan Ahmed (5-103) for 27.

Adnaan Lagadien (four) fell shortly after leaving the chase in the balance. However, Bulbulia and Jason Rowles (51 off 97 balls, four fours) gave the home side hope with a splendid partnership of 119 for the third wicket that took them 180-2.

Ahmed then caused chaos by taking four wickets, including both set batsmen as well as captain Benni Hansen (four) and Divan de Villiers (four).

Ali (3-56) further jolted the hosts with two quick wickets in as many overs leaving them precariously placed at 236-8 with around an hour still to play.

That was when the rearguard instincts of Phahlamohlaka and Daniels kicked in. The pair put on exactly 50 for the ninth wicket, that was broken by Ali with just over an over to play.

Khumalo then braved the final few deliveries to help the South Africans claim a famous draw.

Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images