Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.&nbsp;

While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa.&nbsp;

While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-england-upset-team-india-in-test-series-mahela-jayawardene-opines-359264" hreflang="en">Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines</a>

"It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

"I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier."&nbsp;

Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests.&nbsp;

Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the&nbsp;three-match&nbsp;T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.&nbsp;

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009. While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa. While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019. ALSO READ: Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines "It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference. A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms. "Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! "I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier." Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests. Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the three-match T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.

Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Brady, the 43-year-old widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in the history of the sport, led the Buccaneers to a 31-26 upset of the top-seeded Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

It means the Buccaneers will become the first team in NFL history to play in a&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;at their own arena, with the February 7 showpiece taking place at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

Brady threw for three touchdowns and 280 yards as he punched his ticket to an incredible 10th&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;appearance, 19 years after his playing in his first championship game with the New England Patriots in 2002.

"It's been a long process for the whole team, and today was just a great team effort," Brady said afterwards.

The victory represented a stunning vindication of Brady's decision to leave the Patriots in March last year after a glittering two-decade career in New England that yielded six&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;wins.

"It's been a great journey thus far," Brady said. "We put the work in. I just made a decision. I've loved coming to work every day with this group of guys. I'm just so proud of this whole team."

Brady had helped the Bucs race into a 28-10 lead early in the second half after touchdowns from Mike Evans, Leonard Fournette, Scotty Miller and Cameron Brate as the Packers offense failed to fire.

<h2>- 'This one stings' -</h2>

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers -- bidding to reach a second&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;-- then led a stirring second half fightback with touchdowns from Robert Tonyan and Davante Adams that got the score to 28-23.

But the Packers' challenge fizzled after they controversially opted to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter instead of going for a potentially game-tying touchdown.

"This one definitely stings and is going to for a long time, especially the way it played out and the chances we had," a downcast Rodgers said.

"The finality of it all, kind of hits you like a ton of bricks. It's a gutting feeling in your stomach."

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur later defended the decision to kick a field goal, saying he felt the Green Bay defense could win the ball back.

"The way our defense was playing it felt like it was the right decision," LaFleur said. "It just didn't work out."

<h2>- Chiefs romp -</h2>

While the Buccaneers-Packers game went to the wire, there was no such drama in Kansas City, where the Chiefs outclassed the Buffalo Bills 38-24 to reach the&nbsp;Super&nbsp;Bowl&nbsp;for a second straight year.

"It was just trusting each other," Chiefs quarterback Mahomes said.

"The thing about this team is that we trust each other, and every time we go on the field we give it everything we have.&nbsp;

"But the job's not finished -- we're going to Tampa and we're going to try and run it back.

"We've just got to go to Tampa and be ourselves. I trust my guys over anybody."&nbsp;

The Bills started brightly with a field goal and a touchdown from Dawson Knox to take a 9-0 lead.

But once the Chiefs' offense cranked into life, there was only going to be one winner, with Mahomes showing no ill-effects from the concussion that knocked him out of last week's divisional round win over Cleveland.

The Chiefs rattled off 21 unanswered points with touchdowns from Mecole Hardman, Darrel Williams and Clyde Edwards-Helaire to take a 21-12 lead at half-time.

Mahomes produced a cheeky underarm flipped pass to tight end Travis Kelce in the third quarter to help make it 31-15.

Kelce then added his second touchdown of the game midway through the fourth quarter to make it 38-15.

The Bills rallied with a touchdown from Isaiah McKenzie to cut the Chiefs lead to 38-21 and then recovered an onside kick to raise hopes of an improbable comeback.

The Bills challenge wilted though in an indisciplined finale as the Chiefs closed out a deserved victory.

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home Super Bowl against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made NFL history on Sunday to set up a dream home Super Bowl against Patrick Mahomes and the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. Brady, the 43-year-old widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in the history of the sport, led the Buccaneers to a 31-26 upset of the top-seeded Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. It means the Buccaneers will become the first team in NFL history to play in a Super Bowl at their own arena, with the February 7 showpiece taking place at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Brady threw for three touchdowns and 280 yards as he punched his ticket to an incredible 10th Super Bowl appearance, 19 years after his playing in his first championship game with the New England Patriots in 2002. "It's been a long process for the whole team, and today was just a great team effort," Brady said afterwards. The victory represented a stunning vindication of Brady's decision to leave the Patriots in March last year after a glittering two-decade career in New England that yielded six Super Bowl wins. "It's been a great journey thus far," Brady said. "We put the work in. I just made a decision. I've loved coming to work every day with this group of guys. I'm just so proud of this whole team." Brady had helped the Bucs race into a 28-10 lead early in the second half after touchdowns from Mike Evans, Leonard Fournette, Scotty Miller and Cameron Brate as the Packers offense failed to fire. - 'This one stings' - Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers -- bidding to reach a second Super Bowl -- then led a stirring second half fightback with touchdowns from Robert Tonyan and Davante Adams that got the score to 28-23. But the Packers' challenge fizzled after they controversially opted to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter instead of going for a potentially game-tying touchdown. "This one definitely stings and is going to for a long time, especially the way it played out and the chances we had," a downcast Rodgers said. "The finality of it all, kind of hits you like a ton of bricks. It's a gutting feeling in your stomach." Packers head coach Matt LaFleur later defended the decision to kick a field goal, saying he felt the Green Bay defense could win the ball back. "The way our defense was playing it felt like it was the right decision," LaFleur said. "It just didn't work out." - Chiefs romp - While the Buccaneers-Packers game went to the wire, there was no such drama in Kansas City, where the Chiefs outclassed the Buffalo Bills 38-24 to reach the Super Bowl for a second straight year. "It was just trusting each other," Chiefs quarterback Mahomes said. "The thing about this team is that we trust each other, and every time we go on the field we give it everything we have. "But the job's not finished -- we're going to Tampa and we're going to try and run it back. "We've just got to go to Tampa and be ourselves. I trust my guys over anybody." The Bills started brightly with a field goal and a touchdown from Dawson Knox to take a 9-0 lead. But once the Chiefs' offense cranked into life, there was only going to be one winner, with Mahomes showing no ill-effects from the concussion that knocked him out of last week's divisional round win over Cleveland. The Chiefs rattled off 21 unanswered points with touchdowns from Mecole Hardman, Darrel Williams and Clyde Edwards-Helaire to take a 21-12 lead at half-time. Mahomes produced a cheeky underarm flipped pass to tight end Travis Kelce in the third quarter to help make it 31-15. Kelce then added his second touchdown of the game midway through the fourth quarter to make it 38-15. The Bills rallied with a touchdown from Isaiah McKenzie to cut the Chiefs lead to 38-21 and then recovered an onside kick to raise hopes of an improbable comeback. The Bills challenge wilted though in an indisciplined finale as the Chiefs closed out a deserved victory.

Brady, Mahomes set up dream Super Bowl as Bucs, Chiefs advance

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury.

Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt.

The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone."

Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half.&nbsp;

"He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us."

Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros.&nbsp;

"We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more."

Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack.&nbsp;

There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth.&nbsp;

Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post.&nbsp;

Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner.&nbsp;

Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho.&nbsp;

Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner.

Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third.

The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches.

Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes.

Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19. Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury. Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt. The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday. "The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone." Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half. "He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us." Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival. The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros. "We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more." Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack. There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth. Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post. Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner. Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho. Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner. Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third. The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches. Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes. Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.

Hazard leads Real Madrid to Alaves rout to relieve pressure on Zidane

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday.

The 34-year-old, voted FIFA's best goalkeeper of 2020, bettered the previous record set by former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn.

Kahn needed 557 Bundesliga matches, for Bayern and Karlsruher, to reach the old mark, which current Germany 'keeper Neuer has usurped after 423 league games for the Bavarians and former club Schalke.

On Sunday, Neuer pulled off saves to deny Mark Uth and Suat Serdar in Gelsenkirchen.

Neuer said he hopes Schalke avoid relegation having come through their academy before joining Bayern in 2011.&nbsp;

"I hope Schalke stay in the league and manage to turn the tide," Neuer told Sky, after brushing off questions about his record.

"They had one or two chances and we didn't defend as well as we could have done."

The 4-0 victory, which saw Thomas Mueller score twice, sent Bayern seven points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday.

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer set a new Bundesliga record with the 197th clean sheet of his career in the German top flight as the league leaders thrashed Schalke on Sunday. The 34-year-old, voted FIFA's best goalkeeper of 2020, bettered the previous record set by former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn. Kahn needed 557 Bundesliga matches, for Bayern and Karlsruher, to reach the old mark, which current Germany 'keeper Neuer has usurped after 423 league games for the Bavarians and former club Schalke. On Sunday, Neuer pulled off saves to deny Mark Uth and Suat Serdar in Gelsenkirchen. Neuer said he hopes Schalke avoid relegation having come through their academy before joining Bayern in 2011. "I hope Schalke stay in the league and manage to turn the tide," Neuer told Sky, after brushing off questions about his record. "They had one or two chances and we didn't defend as well as we could have done." The 4-0 victory, which saw Thomas Mueller score twice, sent Bayern seven points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

Neuer sets new Bundesliga record for most clean sheets

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday.

Fernandes struck with 12 minutes left at Old Trafford to cap a thrilling clash that left Liverpool searching for answers after another painful defeat.

Jurgen Klopp's side took the lead through Mohamed Salah's first-half goal, but Mason Greenwood equalised before the interval.

Marcus Rashford put United in front after the break and, although Salah equalised, Portugal midfielder Fernandes came off the bench to fire his free-kick past Alisson Becker.

After slumping to fourth in the Premier League following Thursday's shock 1-0 defeat against Burnley -- their first league loss at Anfield since 2017 -- Liverpool have to lick their wounds again.

The English champions, who trail leaders United by six points, have won only one of their last seven games in all competitions and that lone success came against Aston Villa's youth team in the FA Cup third round.

Liverpool struck in the 18th minute when Roberto Firmino threaded a pass to Salah, who lifted his shot over Dean Henderson.

United levelled in the 26th minute when Rashford sent Greenwood clear for a low strike past Alisson Becker.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men netted again in the 48th minute as a mistake from Liverpool's young defender Rhys Williams allowed Greenwood to race clear and score.

Firmino's cross was converted by Salah for Liverpool's 58th-minute equaliser, but Fernandes won it with his sublime set-piece after Fabinho fouled Edinson Cavani.

United will host West Ham in the fifth round as their momentum continues to build.

"You know when you go a goal down the reaction of everyone was really good. We played some really good stuff, good goals. We have to defend well against them and we managed to react well," Solskjaer said.

Liverpool have never got past the fifth round in Klopp's reign, but that will be the least of his concerns as he tries to spark a revival from his spluttering team.

"There was a lot of&nbsp;good things and some mistakes around the goals. If you want to win here you have to be absolutely top and we were not," Klopp said.

<h2>- Relief for Lampard -</h2>

Lampard has been under the spotlight, but there was some relief for the Blues boss as Abraham's finishing helped seal a 3-1 victory against Luton.

The England striker struck twice in the opening 17 minutes, first firing into the far corner before heading home from close range for his 10th goal of the season.

However, it was not all plain sailing for Lampard's men as goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was at fault for another sloppy goal, while Timo Werner's lack of confidence will not have been helped by missing a penalty.

Jordan Clark's low shot crept past Kepa's woeful attempted save to give Luton a lifeline and the world's most expensive 'keeper had to make a much more difficult stop to deny Harry Cornick an equaliser in the second half.

A brilliant team move finally killed the tie off 16 minutes from time as substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi crossed for Abraham to tap home from point-blank range.

Werner had a chance to score just his second goal in 16 games when he was tripped by Clark, but his dreadful spell continued as his tame penalty was saved by Simon Sluga.

A trip to Barnsley in the fifth round awaits early next month in what is likely to be Chelsea's best chance of a trophy this season.

Leicester and Everton were also successful over Championship opposition to maintain their fine form.

The Foxes came from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 to set up a home tie against Brighton.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck on his return from injury as Everton saw off Sheffield Wednesday 3-0. Carlo Ancelotti's men will face the winners of Tottenham's trip to Wycombe on Monday.

Burnley beat Fulham 3-0 at Craven Cottage and play Bournemouth or Crawley in the last 16.

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday.

Bruno Fernandes' superb free-kick sent troubled Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup as Manchester United beat their bitter rivals 3-2 in the fourth round, while Tammy Abraham's hat-trick eased the pressure on Chelsea manager Frank Lampard in a win over Luton on Sunday. Fernandes struck with 12 minutes left at Old Trafford to cap a thrilling clash that left Liverpool searching for answers after another painful defeat. Jurgen Klopp's side took the lead through Mohamed Salah's first-half goal, but Mason Greenwood equalised before the interval. Marcus Rashford put United in front after the break and, although Salah equalised, Portugal midfielder Fernandes came off the bench to fire his free-kick past Alisson Becker. After slumping to fourth in the Premier League following Thursday's shock 1-0 defeat against Burnley -- their first league loss at Anfield since 2017 -- Liverpool have to lick their wounds again. The English champions, who trail leaders United by six points, have won only one of their last seven games in all competitions and that lone success came against Aston Villa's youth team in the FA Cup third round. Liverpool struck in the 18th minute when Roberto Firmino threaded a pass to Salah, who lifted his shot over Dean Henderson. United levelled in the 26th minute when Rashford sent Greenwood clear for a low strike past Alisson Becker. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men netted again in the 48th minute as a mistake from Liverpool's young defender Rhys Williams allowed Greenwood to race clear and score. Firmino's cross was converted by Salah for Liverpool's 58th-minute equaliser, but Fernandes won it with his sublime set-piece after Fabinho fouled Edinson Cavani. United will host West Ham in the fifth round as their momentum continues to build. "You know when you go a goal down the reaction of everyone was really good. We played some really good stuff, good goals. We have to defend well against them and we managed to react well," Solskjaer said. Liverpool have never got past the fifth round in Klopp's reign, but that will be the least of his concerns as he tries to spark a revival from his spluttering team. "There was a lot of good things and some mistakes around the goals. If you want to win here you have to be absolutely top and we were not," Klopp said. - Relief for Lampard - Lampard has been under the spotlight, but there was some relief for the Blues boss as Abraham's finishing helped seal a 3-1 victory against Luton. The England striker struck twice in the opening 17 minutes, first firing into the far corner before heading home from close range for his 10th goal of the season. However, it was not all plain sailing for Lampard's men as goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was at fault for another sloppy goal, while Timo Werner's lack of confidence will not have been helped by missing a penalty. Jordan Clark's low shot crept past Kepa's woeful attempted save to give Luton a lifeline and the world's most expensive 'keeper had to make a much more difficult stop to deny Harry Cornick an equaliser in the second half. A brilliant team move finally killed the tie off 16 minutes from time as substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi crossed for Abraham to tap home from point-blank range. Werner had a chance to score just his second goal in 16 games when he was tripped by Clark, but his dreadful spell continued as his tame penalty was saved by Simon Sluga. A trip to Barnsley in the fifth round awaits early next month in what is likely to be Chelsea's best chance of a trophy this season. Leicester and Everton were also successful over Championship opposition to maintain their fine form. The Foxes came from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 to set up a home tie against Brighton. Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck on his return from injury as Everton saw off Sheffield Wednesday 3-0. Carlo Ancelotti's men will face the winners of Tottenham's trip to Wycombe on Monday. Burnley beat Fulham 3-0 at Craven Cottage and play Bournemouth or Crawley in the last 16.

Fernandes gem knocks Liverpool out of FA Cup, Chelsea ease pressure on Lampard

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle.

Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine.

Leach&nbsp;soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three.

First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch.

Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch.

Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle.

Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score.

Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response.

Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday. Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle. Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine. Leach soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three. First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch. Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch. Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle. Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score. Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response. Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Leach, Bess rattle Sri Lanka with six wickets

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window. Chelsea on Monday sacked Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results in the Premier League.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lampard was sacked by Chelsea, where he became a football legend as a player, 18 months into his role as manager. While Lampard did exceedingly well by taking Chelsea into a top-four finish last season, heavy spending in the summer window blended with recent series of dismal performances resulted in his sacking.&nbsp;

The Blues have won just one in their five Premier League matches and are currently lying ninth in the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Frank has had a short amount of time with a new set of players. He was given a period under a transfer embargo, it shielded him, he did a great job in that period but the minute they spent the money they did, it was always going to bring more expectation and we know what happens at Chelsea when expectation comes,” Neville told Sky Sports News.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelsea-sack-manager-frank-lampard-359223" hreflang="en">Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard</a>

“When you have one of the biggest budgets in the league and biggest spend, expectation comes with it and at Chelsea, their approach to managers has been consistent and Frank knew that when he got the job.&nbsp;

“Frank won't want people to feel sorry for him, he'll have an understanding that he went into a club that has always been like this with managers. The results and inconsistent form&nbsp;has&nbsp;cost him. As a club legend we maybe all thought he'd get a bit more time.”&nbsp;

However, Neville said that it wasn't a mistake on Lampard's part to accept the job offer by Chelsea as the former English defender wished he would go on to build a great managerial career in future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to take over the charge at Stamford Bridge. Neville warned that Tuchel will be exposed to the same expectations by the Chelsea board similar to what happened to Lampard.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-messi-to-ramos-football-stars-who-run-out-of-contracts-in-2021-356962" hreflang="en">From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021</a>

“I don't believe it was too early, he had no choice,” Neville added. “It's OK everyone saying pick and choose, maybe he wasn't right, there was no way you turn it down if you're Frank Lampard. He's a better manager today than he was 17 months&nbsp;ago,&nbsp;I hope he's able to go and build a brilliant managerial career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I sit here with no feeling of sorry for Frank, or that he's done anything other than a good job. It's Chelsea... Frank has been exposed to Chelsea releasing managers every 12 to 18 months if things don't go as they want.&nbsp;

“I don't have any great deal of worry for Frank's career. Tuchel will be exposed to the exact same rules as Frank and we'll be saying the same about him in 18 months, two years.”&nbsp;

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window.

Former England international Gary Neville has said that "expectations" cost Frank Lampard his job after Chelsea spent lavishly on new players in the summer transfer window. Chelsea on Monday sacked Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results in the Premier League. Lampard was sacked by Chelsea, where he became a football legend as a player, 18 months into his role as manager. While Lampard did exceedingly well by taking Chelsea into a top-four finish last season, heavy spending in the summer window blended with recent series of dismal performances resulted in his sacking. The Blues have won just one in their five Premier League matches and are currently lying ninth in the table. “Frank has had a short amount of time with a new set of players. He was given a period under a transfer embargo, it shielded him, he did a great job in that period but the minute they spent the money they did, it was always going to bring more expectation and we know what happens at Chelsea when expectation comes,” Neville told Sky Sports News. ALSO READ: Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard “When you have one of the biggest budgets in the league and biggest spend, expectation comes with it and at Chelsea, their approach to managers has been consistent and Frank knew that when he got the job. “Frank won't want people to feel sorry for him, he'll have an understanding that he went into a club that has always been like this with managers. The results and inconsistent form has cost him. As a club legend we maybe all thought he'd get a bit more time.” However, Neville said that it wasn't a mistake on Lampard's part to accept the job offer by Chelsea as the former English defender wished he would go on to build a great managerial career in future. Thomas Tuchel, who was recently sacked by Paris Saint-Germain, is favourite to take over the charge at Stamford Bridge. Neville warned that Tuchel will be exposed to the same expectations by the Chelsea board similar to what happened to Lampard. ALSO READ: From Messi to Ramos: Football stars who run out of contracts in 2021 “I don't believe it was too early, he had no choice,” Neville added. “It's OK everyone saying pick and choose, maybe he wasn't right, there was no way you turn it down if you're Frank Lampard. He's a better manager today than he was 17 months ago, I hope he's able to go and build a brilliant managerial career. “I sit here with no feeling of sorry for Frank, or that he's done anything other than a good job. It's Chelsea... Frank has been exposed to Chelsea releasing managers every 12 to 18 months if things don't go as they want. “I don't have any great deal of worry for Frank's career. Tuchel will be exposed to the exact same rules as Frank and we'll be saying the same about him in 18 months, two years.”

'Tuchel will be exposed to exact same rules': Gary Neville on Frank Lampard's sacking as Chelsea manager

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.&nbsp;Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's&nbsp;historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21.&nbsp;

Jayawardene&nbsp;has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will&nbsp;help England pose a challenge against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;told Sky Sports:&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

"Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India."&nbsp;

England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5. Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India. India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. Jayawardene has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will help England pose a challenge against India. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy. When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain Jayawardene told Sky Sports: "I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series. "Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 "Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared. "The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India." England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0.

Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs.

Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs.

The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively

The two teams will play two Test matches in February.&nbsp;

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs. Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs. The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively The two teams will play two Test matches in February.

Bangladesh sweep ODI series 3-0 against West Indies

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final&nbsp;–&nbsp;dates&nbsp;yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC.&nbsp;

In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the&nbsp;percentage of win points.&nbsp;

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With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZoliydObpd">pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;in a two-Test series from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,”&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;had said&nbsp;heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.&nbsp;

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day.

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final – dates yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC. In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the percentage of win points. With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face New Zealand in a two-Test series from June 2. “I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,” Indian captain Virat Kohli had said heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.

ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle&nbsp;to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith&nbsp;Embuldeniya&nbsp;toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a&nbsp;blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series&nbsp;while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average.&nbsp;

England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.”&nbsp;

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a>

England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six.&nbsp;

Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors.&nbsp;

England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka. While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average. England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss. ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.” Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets. Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six. Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors. England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently. Describing the call as "a very difficult decision", Chelsea thanked Lampard for his contribution as the head coach of the club while adding the recent performances have not met club's expectations.&nbsp;

Lampard, who had helped Chelsea finish fourth in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league?page=1">Premier League</a> 2019-20 season despite having a transfer ban, enjoyed a good start in the ongoing season but the performances have gone downward since December.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chelsea&nbsp;boss Roman Abramovich said that under the current circumstances, the&nbsp;hierarchy&nbsp;thought it is the best to change managers.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai&nbsp;Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a&nbsp;rollicking&nbsp;start but fell off the radar with players&nbsp;hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{85bf3494-e16c-4655-95ce-623f7a44dc7e}{56}" paraid="999215843" >Full Statement from Chelsea on Frank Lampard's sacking:&nbsp;</h2>

This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.&nbsp;

We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.&nbsp;

There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration, it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.&nbsp;

Roman Abramovich said,&nbsp;

“This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’.&nbsp;

“He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances, we believe it is best to change manage

“On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”&nbsp;

The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.&nbsp;

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently.

Chelsea on Monday officially sacked Frank Lampard as the manager of the club after a string of poor results. While Chelsea won their FA Cup 2020-21 match against Luton Town, the London club has been struggling to win matches consistently. Describing the call as "a very difficult decision", Chelsea thanked Lampard for his contribution as the head coach of the club while adding the recent performances have not met club's expectations. Lampard, who had helped Chelsea finish fourth in the Premier League 2019-20 season despite having a transfer ban, enjoyed a good start in the ongoing season but the performances have gone downward since December. Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich said that under the current circumstances, the hierarchy thought it is the best to change managers. Chelsea went on to sign the likes of Timo Werner, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell among others, the club has failed to stitch a series of positive results recently. Chelsea, in the ongoing 2020-21 season, were off to a rollicking start but fell off the radar with players hitting off-form at the wrong time of the season. Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Frank Lampard. — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 25, 2021 × Full Statement from Chelsea on Frank Lampard's sacking: This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly. We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement. There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration, it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season. Roman Abramovich said, “This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’. “He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances, we believe it is best to change manage “On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.” The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.

Premier League: Chelsea sack manager Frank Lampard

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