Highveld Lions batsman Steven Cook set a South African record for the most runs in a first-class innings when he reached 390 on the fourth and final day of the SuperSport Series match against the Warriors in East London earlier today.

The 26-year-old opening batsman faced 648 balls in a mammoth effort in the Lions' first innings of a match that was heading for a certain draw. Cook's innings included an incredible 53 boundaries and one six as he put on 190 more than his previous career best of 200 not out.

Cook spent 14 hours at the crease in an innings that spanned 10 sessions and his contribution easily surpassed Darryl Cullinan's 16-year-old national first-class record of 337 not out. His 390-run effort is the 12th highest in first-class cricket and the best in the world since Brian Lara made an unbeaten 400 for the West Indies against Australia in the 2003-04 season.

Cook was eventually removed when Warriors captain Johan Botha had him trapped leg-before in the final innings of the game. - Sapa