Brian Lara celebrates reclaiming the world record for the highest Test score

Brian Lara celebrates reclaiming the world record for the highest Test score, ten years on from doing it for the first time © Getty Images

1969
Brian Lara, who was born today, was one of the game's most exciting batsmen, and the author of some of the most famous innings of all time: 375, 400 and 501, the highest in Test and first-class history, as well as 213 and 153 not out to single-handedly beat Australia in 1998-99. But his career had its fair share of problems and run-ins with authority, and as a captain he often struggled to inspire colleagues, although he was battling to lead a side in decline. Many hoped he would bow out on a high at the World Cup in the Caribbean, but West Indies were poor and Lara quit as captain amid rumours that he was pushed by the board. He deserved better.