On this day, 26 years ago, Lara smashed record unbeaten 501

On this day in 1994, Brian Lara struck an unbeaten 501 -- the highest score ever made in first-class cricket -- for Warwickshire against Durham at Edgbaston.

It is a record that has remained ever since and will most likely last a lot longer, possibly forever.

Within just two months of hitting a record 375 against England in Tests, Lara achieved immortality and etched his name in the record books by scoring the highest score in first-class cricket history. He surpassed Hanif Mohammad's 499 while playing for Warwickshire against Durham at Edgbaston on this day 26 years ago. 

Lara had however survived a few close calls during his incredible innings. He was dismissed off an eventual no-ball on 12 before being dropped on 18 by Durham wicketkeeper Chris Scott. 

Lara only faced 427 deliveries to achieve this feat as the legendary left-hander hit a total of 62 fours and ten sixes. On the last day of the game, Lara smashed 174 runs before lunch.

Lara was also the first cricketer to score seven hundreds in eight first-class innings. He is also the record holder for most runs in Tests. His unbeaten 400 against England in 2004 at the Antigua Recreation Ground still remains unconquered.  

The summer of 1994 was a memorable one for Warwickshire. With Lara's assistance, Warwickshire became the first English county to win a domestic treble of trophies - County Championship, Benson & Hedges Cup and Sunday League.

They might even have won a fourth, too, only for them to be beaten in the NatWest Trophy final by their old enemies Worcestershire, who they had beaten in the first Lord's final of the summer two months earlier.