Lara Pays tribute to Hayden

Brian Lara today congratulated Matthew Hayden after the Australian claimed his record for the highest individual Test score.

Hayden cracked a sensational 380 off only 437 balls to put Australia in a commanding position in the opening Test against Zimbabwe at Perth.

The opener struck 38 fours and 11 sixes as he eclipsed the previous Test best of 375 scored by Lara against England in Antigua nine years ago.

West Indies captain Lara said: "I called Matthew Hayden at the close of play in Perth today and congratulated him on his record achievement.

"I am, and will always be grateful to have been chosen to hold the Test record for nearly 10 years and to belong to the elite group of batsmen who have headed the all-time scoring list.

"My focus for the future lies in contributing to the development of the West Indies team and playing my part in a successful, winning team.

"The record for Matthew is a testament to Australian cricket and their fast pace of play.

"His score is likely to be made in the context of an Australian victory. A standard has been set which we must strive to achieve and pass. I wish Matthew and his family peace and happiness."

Hayden offered just one chance in his innings when he was dropped by Trevor Gripper immediately after overtaking the Australian best score of 334 set by Sir Don Bradman and Mark Taylor.

He was eventually removed when he hit Gripper into the hands of Stuart Carlisle.

Adam Gilchrist also scored a century as Australia racked up 735 for six declared. Zimbabwe were 79 for one at the close of the second day.