VIKRAM Solanki's magnificent 232 inspired Worcestershire into equalling the highest ever first-class score seen at New Road during the LV County Championship Division One game with Surrey.

However, had the captain allowed his players to add one more run instead of declaring on 701-6, the County would have broken a record that has stood for almost 101 years.

Back in July 1906, Henry Foster's Worcestershire entertained Leicestershire in the County Championship and, similarly to the most recent game at New Road, the game was a real run-fest.

Foster called right and opted for first use of the track and would have been happy enough with his side's 380 all out, which was built around Frederick Pearson's 95, 87 from William Burns and George Wilson's 66.

However, in reply, the Leicestershire openers put on 380 for the first wicket alone, with Cecil Wood stroking 225 and Harry Whitehead contributing 174.

Albert Knight scored 97 before Vivian Crawford became the third centurion of the innings with an unbeaten 102 as the visitors posted 701-4 declared.

The current Worcestershire side did claim a new record though, surpassing the 696-8 declared they made against Somerset at New Road in 2005.

On that day, the hosts dismissed Somerset for 318 before racking up a huge reply, built around Ben Smith's 172, 161 from Zander de Bruyn and a knock of 148 by Steve Davies.

Four wickets apiece for Gareth Batty and Ray Price then secured an innings and 56-run victory.