Hashim Amla has broken the record for the highest ever test score by a South Africa batsman, hitting a triple century as the tourists reached tea on 2-637 in the first test against England at The Oval – a lead of 252 on day four.

Amla is unbeaten on 311 from 529 balls with 35 fours – beating the previous highest score of 278 not out by AB de Villiers against Pakistan in 2010.

Jacques Kallis is 182 not out, from 326 balls with a six and 23 fours, on a tortuous and wicketless Sunday for England’s bowlers.

The batsmen have put on an unbroken stand of 377 for the third wicket.