#OTD in 2003: Matthew Hayden surpasses Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score

Matthew Hayden scored 380 off 437 balls [PC: Twitter]

Brian Charles Lara for nine long years topped the charts for the highest individual Test score before it was broken by Australia's Matthew Hayden.

The first Test between hosts Australia and visiting Zimbabwe witnessed history in the making at the iconic Western Australia Cricket Association Ground (WACA) in Perth.

Hayden was on the rise in international cricket coming into the Test, having scored nine centuries since his re-entry into the Australian Test side. The opener bullied the Zimbabwean bowlers into submission on Day 1, making life tough for them in batting-friendly conditions, where the home side made merry.

He drove, clobbered, and whipped the likes of Heath Streak, Andy Blignaut, and Ray Price, showing no remorse for his counterparts. One of the main highlights of his inning was his impeccable footwork against both spinners and fast bowlers.

A restrained in his approach, Hayden ended Day 1 on 183*.

Day Two

Hayden registered his second double ton in Tests swiftly only to break the shackles in the first session of Day 2. Supported by Adam Gilchrist, the Queenslandian powerhouse tore into the attack, this time looting runs in a disrespectful fashion.

He reached the 300-run mark in 364 balls with 33 fours and eight sixes; only the fifth Australian.

His onslaught saw no end as he bludgeoned boundaries at will to near Lara's tally of 375. His effortless pushback towards the bowler brought up his 376-run, becoming the holder of a new world record.

Steve Waugh declared the Australian innings at the dismissal of Hayden's wicket on 380.