Lara basks in glow of new world record

ST JOHN’S: Brian Lara is embracing a plethora of congratulatory messages and support surrounding his second world record batting performance at the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) on Monday. Lara smashed 400 not out in reclaiming the world individual batting record he achieved here 10 years ago (375) but lost to Australian Matthew Hayden (380) six months ago. Hayden was among the calls Lara got soon after his amazing knock that included 43 fours and four sixes off 582 balls in 776 minutes. “He was very congratulatory. I really do appreciate the fact that he took time out to call,” Lara said.  “He (Hayden) expressed that he was listening and that he was very happy for me, my family and my team-mates and he enjoyed the period of time that he had the record.”

At the post-play press conference on Monday evening, Lara was also grateful to the fans and his team-mates. “The support has been great,” said the 34-year-old Trinidadian.  “My team-mates, I must mention my team-mates they have been spectacular over the last couple of days, really spurring me one,” he said. The support staff in the West Indies unit also came in for some praise from Lara, who credited team trainer Ronald Rogers and physiotherapist Andrew Simpson, for assisting him with his physical fitness. “I am doing a lot more work, training with Ronald Rogers (trainer) and Andrew (Simpson), and I must commend them for the sort of effort they are getting out of me at 34 years old, I wasn’t doing that at 24.  “It’s amazing to be working hard and finally seeing the results for it,” Lara said.  Lara also took calls Monday from TT Prime Minister Patrick Manning and South Africa golf star Ernie Els, rated number three in the world.

“I got a call from my Prime Minister, I got a call from the guy who came second in the (golf) Masters called Ernie Els, a good friend of mine, and it’s been really, really great.” The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) also released their congratulatory message, describing the effort as a “tremendous achievement,” in a letter signed by President Teddy Griffith. “You have led by example and we are all proud of your achievement,” the message said.  “As you prepare for the remaining days of this Test match and for the upcoming ODIs, please pass on our congratulations to the manager, coach and all the members of your team who share this moment with you. “Continued good luck and happy hunting to you all,” the WICB said.