The third T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan at the McLean Park in Napier came to an abrupt halt during the 12 over as the Kiwi duo of Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips struggled to see the ball as the sunset over the stadium.

Phillips was heard saying to the on-field umpire that seeing Pakistan bowler Haris Rauf’s slower ball was tough due to the awkward light angle of the sun.

Phillips during the brief halt said that it wasn’t the best of time to lose a wicket because of the sunlight while adding they want to continue the momentum after the play resumes.

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“For me, that was a little big niggly and for me and Dev starting to get underway, I didn’t think it was a great time to lose a wicket because of the sun,” Phillips told the Spark Sport broadcast during the brief break.

“We don’t like to make excuses, but for us in this situation of the game, we’d rather keep our momentum going. That’s a big positive we’ve managed to get off for a little bit.

“Now we’ve got to start again and see what the next over presents.”

Notably, it is not the first time play has been stopped due to sunlight position at the McLean Park in Napier. In January 2019, the ODI match between New Zealand and India suffered a half for more than half an hour due to the same reason.

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In 2017, a T20I match between New Zealand and Bangladesh also suffered a similar fate while there have been constant breaks in play during domestic matches in Napier.

The tricky awkward angle of the sunset at McLean Park is due to the pitches being at an east-west alignment while most of the cricket venues around the world have pitches running north and south.&nbsp;

“There is a precedence set at this ground as well. It’s not like they’re doing something crazy,” former Kiwi batsman Mark Richardson said in commentary.

“What happens, you can see the McLean Park stand where it’s got ‘McLean Park’ written on it. The sun comes down and it’s just sitting above the stand on the roof, but it also drops down and it starts shining at a lower level through the windows at the back of the stand – and that can cause some major issues as well. It’s a quirk of this ground.”

Richardson added that the venue staff can put an end to the persisting issue by adding a massive portable object to block the sunlight.&nbsp;

“I’m sorry I’ve got to say – I know it’s a quirk and I know you can’t do much with the sun – but there really should’ve been something (done) to manage this, a structure added on in the knowledge they’re going to get these night games here at McLean Park,” Richardson said.

“They should’ve done something about it, they had time to do it.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan are on the verge of winning the final T20I and end the series on a high after losing the first two T20Is against New Zealand. The two sides will then lock horns in a two-match Test series starting from December 26. 
&nbsp;

The third T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan at the McLean Park in Napier came to an abrupt halt during the 12 over as the Kiwi duo of Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips struggled to see the ball as the sunset over the stadium.

The third T20I between New Zealand and Pakistan at the McLean Park in Napier came to an abrupt halt during the 12 over as the Kiwi duo of Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips struggled to see the ball as the sunset over the stadium. Phillips was heard saying to the on-field umpire that seeing Pakistan bowler Haris Rauf’s slower ball was tough due to the awkward light angle of the sun. Phillips during the brief halt said that it wasn’t the best of time to lose a wicket because of the sunlight while adding they want to continue the momentum after the play resumes. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? “For me, that was a little big niggly and for me and Dev starting to get underway, I didn’t think it was a great time to lose a wicket because of the sun,” Phillips told the Spark Sport broadcast during the brief break. “We don’t like to make excuses, but for us in this situation of the game, we’d rather keep our momentum going. That’s a big positive we’ve managed to get off for a little bit. “Now we’ve got to start again and see what the next over presents.” Notably, it is not the first time play has been stopped due to sunlight position at the McLean Park in Napier. In January 2019, the ODI match between New Zealand and India suffered a half for more than half an hour due to the same reason. ALSO READ: England hire South African batting legend Kallis for Sri Lanka tour In 2017, a T20I match between New Zealand and Bangladesh also suffered a similar fate while there have been constant breaks in play during domestic matches in Napier. The tricky awkward angle of the sunset at McLean Park is due to the pitches being at an east-west alignment while most of the cricket venues around the world have pitches running north and south. “There is a precedence set at this ground as well. It’s not like they’re doing something crazy,” former Kiwi batsman Mark Richardson said in commentary. “What happens, you can see the McLean Park stand where it’s got ‘McLean Park’ written on it. The sun comes down and it’s just sitting above the stand on the roof, but it also drops down and it starts shining at a lower level through the windows at the back of the stand – and that can cause some major issues as well. It’s a quirk of this ground.” Richardson added that the venue staff can put an end to the persisting issue by adding a massive portable object to block the sunlight. “I’m sorry I’ve got to say – I know it’s a quirk and I know you can’t do much with the sun – but there really should’ve been something (done) to manage this, a structure added on in the knowledge they’re going to get these night games here at McLean Park,” Richardson said. “They should’ve done something about it, they had time to do it.” Meanwhile, Pakistan are on the verge of winning the final T20I and end the series on a high after losing the first two T20Is against New Zealand. The two sides will then lock horns in a two-match Test series starting from December 26.

New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd T20I halted due to sun!

The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin bamboozled the Australian batsmen, including Steve Smith, as he picked up four wickets in the first innings to restrict Australia to just 190 runs.&nbsp;

Smith, who is one of the finest batsmen of this generation, hailed Ashwin for executing his plans to perfection. Ashwin kept Smith silent during his 29-ball stay at the pitch in the first innings before dismissing him with a ripper. Ashwin bowled a few off-spinners before firing a straighter one to Smith as the Aussie batter edged it to the first slip, where Ajinkya Rahane took a sharp catch.

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Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Smith lauded Ashwin while terming him a ‘world-class performer’.&nbsp;

"No (when asked about if his dismissal was a case of preparing too hard for the pace battery of India). I just knicked one that didn't spin; unfortunately that happens sometimes. I thought it was pretty well bowled, to be honest. The two balls prior spun a bit and got a bit grip of the wicket and the next one was kind of side-spin which skidded off. I didn't play as well as I would have liked. It was some decent bowling," Smith said while replying to a query from ANI.&nbsp;

"Playing in Australia and playing in India is a bit different; the ball doesn't spin as much as it spins in India. He is a good bowler, he has played a lot of cricket now. He is a world-class performer," he further said.&nbsp;

"I know he got the better of me the other day; hopefully, I will learn something and move forward and play him a little bit better in the next game," Smith added.

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Smith admitted that he needs to adapt quickly to spin bowling which India have to offer in the four-match Test series while adding that spinners who do well in Australia are generally the ones who get over the top.

"He tried to bowl from round the wicket and skid it on. It was a good piece of bowling. Part of playing anywhere is adapting," said Smith during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;

"I too couldn't bat the same against spinners in India as I do here. You gotta adapt. Spinners that do well here are generally who get over the top," he added.

India head into the Boxing Day Test without Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injured) with Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the side in the Test, starting December 26 in Melbourne. 
&nbsp;

The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia.

The Adelaide Test may not have gone as per the plans for the Indian team but there were some positives to take for the visitors despite the crushing eight-wicket defeat to Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin bamboozled the Australian batsmen, including Steve Smith, as he picked up four wickets in the first innings to restrict Australia to just 190 runs. Smith, who is one of the finest batsmen of this generation, hailed Ashwin for executing his plans to perfection. Ashwin kept Smith silent during his 29-ball stay at the pitch in the first innings before dismissing him with a ripper. Ashwin bowled a few off-spinners before firing a straighter one to Smith as the Aussie batter edged it to the first slip, where Ajinkya Rahane took a sharp catch. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina, Guru Randhawa arrested and booked in raid at Mumbai club Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Smith lauded Ashwin while terming him a ‘world-class performer’. "No (when asked about if his dismissal was a case of preparing too hard for the pace battery of India). I just knicked one that didn't spin; unfortunately that happens sometimes. I thought it was pretty well bowled, to be honest. The two balls prior spun a bit and got a bit grip of the wicket and the next one was kind of side-spin which skidded off. I didn't play as well as I would have liked. It was some decent bowling," Smith said while replying to a query from ANI. "Playing in Australia and playing in India is a bit different; the ball doesn't spin as much as it spins in India. He is a good bowler, he has played a lot of cricket now. He is a world-class performer," he further said. "I know he got the better of me the other day; hopefully, I will learn something and move forward and play him a little bit better in the next game," Smith added. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? Smith admitted that he needs to adapt quickly to spin bowling which India have to offer in the four-match Test series while adding that spinners who do well in Australia are generally the ones who get over the top. "He tried to bowl from round the wicket and skid it on. It was a good piece of bowling. Part of playing anywhere is adapting," said Smith during a virtual press conference. "I too couldn't bat the same against spinners in India as I do here. You gotta adapt. Spinners that do well here are generally who get over the top," he added. India head into the Boxing Day Test without Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injured) with Ajinkya Rahane set to lead the side in the Test, starting December 26 in Melbourne.

'World-class performer': Steve Smith hails Ravichandran Ashwin for terrific display in Adelaide Test

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday.&nbsp;

The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets.

Kallis coached Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and worked with the South Africa team, but was not part of the set-up for England's recent coronavirus-disrupted tour.

"Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis joins the England setup for the first time as batting coaching consultant," the ECB said in a statement.

England will leave for Sri Lanka on January 2 and play two Tests before going on to tour India.

Both Tests will be played in Galle, starting on 14 January and 22 January.

It will be England's first tour since the visit to South Africa had to be brought to a premature end earlier this month after two members of the touring party tested positive for Covid-19. They later tested negative.&nbsp;

England played all three of the scheduled Twenty 20 internationals but none of the three ODIs, the first of which was postponed after a positive test in the South African entourage.

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday. The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets.

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday. The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets. Kallis coached Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and worked with the South Africa team, but was not part of the set-up for England's recent coronavirus-disrupted tour. "Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis joins the England setup for the first time as batting coaching consultant," the ECB said in a statement. England will leave for Sri Lanka on January 2 and play two Tests before going on to tour India. Both Tests will be played in Galle, starting on 14 January and 22 January. It will be England's first tour since the visit to South Africa had to be brought to a premature end earlier this month after two members of the touring party tested positive for Covid-19. They later tested negative. England played all three of the scheduled Twenty 20 internationals but none of the three ODIs, the first of which was postponed after a positive test in the South African entourage.

England hire South African batting legend Kallis for Sri Lanka tour

Manchester City's strikers will have to rediscover their scoring touch because reinforcements will not be signed in January, manager Pep Guardiola has said.

Guardiola explained that even with the backing of their Abu Dhabi owners, City were subject to the same financial pressures as their rivals due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

City have scored only twice in their last three league games but hope to welcome back Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus for Tuesday's League Cup quarter-final with Arsenal.

However, the League Cup holders' record goalscorer Argentinian Sergio Aguero is sidelined by an undisclosed issue having had knee and illness problems already this season.

Asked about the prospect of new blood coming to the club, Guardiola replied: "No I don't think so because the economic situation around the world is what it is.

"All the clubs struggle -- we are not an exception."

City are eight points adrift of champions Liverpool after 14 matches as they bid to reclaim the title Jurgen Klopp's side took off them last season.

Guardiola says the lack of goals harms their chances of catching Liverpool but he hopes City will be more clinical against out-of-form Arsenal.

"We are creating clear chances that we cannot score and when this happens we are always going to suffer," he said.

"That's why I'm not able to say how we will be this season.

"Game by game is the only thing I can do and now we go to London to play Arsenal in the League Cup."

Guardiola, though, can be thankful that dspite the misfiring front line his defence have been in miserly form with seven clean sheets in their last eight matches in all competitions.&nbsp;

"It's incredible -- that is how we can still be there, knocking on the door of teams above us," said Guardiola.

"We need it to be stable and maybe one day players will be fresh to score the goals."

Manchester City's strikers will have to rediscover their scoring touch because reinforcements will not be signed in January, manager Pep Guardiola has said. Guardiola explained that even with the backing of their Abu Dhabi owners, City were subject to the same financial pressures as their rivals due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Manchester City's strikers will have to rediscover their scoring touch because reinforcements will not be signed in January, manager Pep Guardiola has said. Guardiola explained that even with the backing of their Abu Dhabi owners, City were subject to the same financial pressures as their rivals due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. City have scored only twice in their last three league games but hope to welcome back Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus for Tuesday's League Cup quarter-final with Arsenal. However, the League Cup holders' record goalscorer Argentinian Sergio Aguero is sidelined by an undisclosed issue having had knee and illness problems already this season. Asked about the prospect of new blood coming to the club, Guardiola replied: "No I don't think so because the economic situation around the world is what it is. "All the clubs struggle -- we are not an exception." City are eight points adrift of champions Liverpool after 14 matches as they bid to reclaim the title Jurgen Klopp's side took off them last season. Guardiola says the lack of goals harms their chances of catching Liverpool but he hopes City will be more clinical against out-of-form Arsenal. "We are creating clear chances that we cannot score and when this happens we are always going to suffer," he said. "That's why I'm not able to say how we will be this season. "Game by game is the only thing I can do and now we go to London to play Arsenal in the League Cup." Guardiola, though, can be thankful that dspite the misfiring front line his defence have been in miserly form with seven clean sheets in their last eight matches in all competitions. "It's incredible -- that is how we can still be there, knocking on the door of teams above us," said Guardiola. "We need it to be stable and maybe one day players will be fresh to score the goals."

Guardiola says no new striker for City due to Covid impact

Tammy Abraham hit a quickfire late double on Monday as Chelsea beat West Ham 3-0 to reignite their Premier League challenge after a consecutive defeats.

The Hammers proved tricky opponents at an empty Stamford Bridge but lacked the firepower to hurt Frank Lampard's men, who led early through Thiago Silva's bullet header.

Chelsea enjoyed a strong start to the season before losses to Everton and Wolves checked their progress but the victory at the London Stadium lifts them into fifth spot.

Champions Liverpool have opened up a five-point gap at the top of the table but behind them, just seven points separate second-placed Leicester from 11th-placed Wolves.

"It was nice to see that at the end because we had a period at 1-0 where it was tough, we dealt with that well," Lampard told the BBC.

"We dropped off slightly and it was important tonight we came back," he added. "There were loads of things for the team to show their character -- we want more.

"Christmas has been changed for everybody this year. For the lads we just have to prepare for Arsenal, it's a busy time of year for us."

West Ham had the ball in the net in the seventh minute after a cleverly worked free kick but Declan Rice was denied by the off-side flag after an impressive finish from a tight angle.

Three minutes later Chelsea were in front when Silva powered home a header from Mason Mount's corner.

The Brazilian found the net from close range after a well-timed run, leaving West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski rooted to the spot.

Chelsea enjoyed the lion's share of possession after their goal without creating much of note but West Ham worked their way into the game as the half wore on.

<h2>- Werner goal drought -</h2>

Timo Werner, who has not scored for Chelsea since early November, had a golden chance to double their lead in the closing minutes of the first period but got the ball caught under his feet and Fabianski saved comfortably.

David Moyes's team&nbsp;made life uncomfortable for the home side after the break but did not make the most of their regular forays forward despite the introduction of forward Said Benrahma.

They were made to pay when Abraham, back in the starting XI, doubled Chelsea's lead with 12 minutes to go, settling their nerves and ending his own drought.

Werner cut inside and saw his scuffed shot tapped in by the England international, who was played onside by Aaron Cresswell.

Two minutes later Chelsea were 3-0 up when Abraham fired home from a tight angle after Fabianski had done well to keep out Christian Pulisic's header.

That made it the eighth time Chelsea have scored at least three goals in a Premier League match this season -- and they nearly had a fourth when Werner struck the crossbar with two minutes left.&nbsp;

The win lifts Chelsea to 25 points -- one behind fourth-placed Everton -- while West Ham stay in 10th place.

Earlier, Burnley beat Wolves 2-1 to climb out of the Premier League's relegation zone, thanks to goals from Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood.

Tammy Abraham hit a quickfire late double on Monday as Chelsea beat West Ham 3-0 to reignite their Premier League challenge after a consecutive defeats. The Hammers proved tricky opponents at an empty Stamford Bridge but lacked the firepower to hurt Frank Lampard's men, who led early through Thiago Silva's bullet header.

Tammy Abraham hit a quickfire late double on Monday as Chelsea beat West Ham 3-0 to reignite their Premier League challenge after a consecutive defeats. The Hammers proved tricky opponents at an empty Stamford Bridge but lacked the firepower to hurt Frank Lampard's men, who led early through Thiago Silva's bullet header. Chelsea enjoyed a strong start to the season before losses to Everton and Wolves checked their progress but the victory at the London Stadium lifts them into fifth spot. Champions Liverpool have opened up a five-point gap at the top of the table but behind them, just seven points separate second-placed Leicester from 11th-placed Wolves. "It was nice to see that at the end because we had a period at 1-0 where it was tough, we dealt with that well," Lampard told the BBC. "We dropped off slightly and it was important tonight we came back," he added. "There were loads of things for the team to show their character -- we want more. "Christmas has been changed for everybody this year. For the lads we just have to prepare for Arsenal, it's a busy time of year for us." West Ham had the ball in the net in the seventh minute after a cleverly worked free kick but Declan Rice was denied by the off-side flag after an impressive finish from a tight angle. Three minutes later Chelsea were in front when Silva powered home a header from Mason Mount's corner. The Brazilian found the net from close range after a well-timed run, leaving West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski rooted to the spot. Chelsea enjoyed the lion's share of possession after their goal without creating much of note but West Ham worked their way into the game as the half wore on. - Werner goal drought - Timo Werner, who has not scored for Chelsea since early November, had a golden chance to double their lead in the closing minutes of the first period but got the ball caught under his feet and Fabianski saved comfortably. David Moyes's team made life uncomfortable for the home side after the break but did not make the most of their regular forays forward despite the introduction of forward Said Benrahma. They were made to pay when Abraham, back in the starting XI, doubled Chelsea's lead with 12 minutes to go, settling their nerves and ending his own drought. Werner cut inside and saw his scuffed shot tapped in by the England international, who was played onside by Aaron Cresswell. Two minutes later Chelsea were 3-0 up when Abraham fired home from a tight angle after Fabianski had done well to keep out Christian Pulisic's header. That made it the eighth time Chelsea have scored at least three goals in a Premier League match this season -- and they nearly had a fourth when Werner struck the crossbar with two minutes left. The win lifts Chelsea to 25 points -- one behind fourth-placed Everton -- while West Ham stay in 10th place. Earlier, Burnley beat Wolves 2-1 to climb out of the Premier League's relegation zone, thanks to goals from Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood.

Abraham at the double as Chelsea sink West Ham

Talismanic Australia batsman Steve Smith said Tuesday he would love Sydney to host the new year Test against India as planned, despite the city currently battling a coronavirus outbreak.

"Personally I'd love Sydney to happen, I love playing at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground), it's my home ground," Smith said.

Australia's largest city has been virtually sealed off from the largely virus-free rest of the country after a cluster of coronavirus cases were uncovered, raising serious doubts about the third Test which is scheduled to start on January 7.&nbsp;

"I think everyone's preference here would be to play in Sydney, but we will always be guided by experts," Smith said.&nbsp;

If the Sydney clash goes ahead, the players could have problems travelling to Brisbane for the final Test a week later after Queensland effectively closed its border to Sydney.

The second Test starts in Melbourne on Boxing Day and back-to-back Tests there could be an option.

Otherwise, they could return to Adelaide, where Australia won the opening Test by eight wickets on Saturday, or host two in a row in Brisbane.

Australia are currently leading the Test series 1-0, after an Indian second-innings batting collapse in Adelaide.&nbsp;

India were bowled out for their record Test low of 36 by Australia's trio of fast bowlers led by Josh Hazlewood, who took five wickets for eight runs, Pat Cummins who grabbed &nbsp;four, backed up by Mitchell Starc.&nbsp;

Smith said that victory rested on one of the best performances he had seen from a group of Australian pace bowlers.&nbsp;

"I played a lot of cricket with all three of those fast bowlers and I reckon the length they bowled consistently was as good as I've seen," he said.

"The lengths they were hitting were just impeccable."&nbsp;

Smith refused to be drawn on whether India, who will now be without Virat Kohli, could bounce back in the second Test beginning on Boxing Day in Melbourne.&nbsp;

"Every individual is different -- the way they take their dismissals, how they think about the game after it's finished," he said.

Smith said playing a Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was always special.

"It's sort of like a dream come true in a way I think, as a kid I always wanted to play in a Boxing Day Test match, I always remember watching the Boxing Day Tests at home with the family after Christmas.&nbsp;

"To walk out on Boxing Day and play, you sort of get the shivers down your spine and the hairs on the back of your neck rise up and it's just a great feeling."&nbsp;

Talismanic Australia batsman Steve Smith said Tuesday he would love Sydney to host the new year Test against India as planned, despite the city currently battling a coronavirus outbreak.

Talismanic Australia batsman Steve Smith said Tuesday he would love Sydney to host the new year Test against India as planned, despite the city currently battling a coronavirus outbreak. "Personally I'd love Sydney to happen, I love playing at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground), it's my home ground," Smith said. Australia's largest city has been virtually sealed off from the largely virus-free rest of the country after a cluster of coronavirus cases were uncovered, raising serious doubts about the third Test which is scheduled to start on January 7. "I think everyone's preference here would be to play in Sydney, but we will always be guided by experts," Smith said. If the Sydney clash goes ahead, the players could have problems travelling to Brisbane for the final Test a week later after Queensland effectively closed its border to Sydney. The second Test starts in Melbourne on Boxing Day and back-to-back Tests there could be an option. Otherwise, they could return to Adelaide, where Australia won the opening Test by eight wickets on Saturday, or host two in a row in Brisbane. Australia are currently leading the Test series 1-0, after an Indian second-innings batting collapse in Adelaide. India were bowled out for their record Test low of 36 by Australia's trio of fast bowlers led by Josh Hazlewood, who took five wickets for eight runs, Pat Cummins who grabbed four, backed up by Mitchell Starc. Smith said that victory rested on one of the best performances he had seen from a group of Australian pace bowlers. "I played a lot of cricket with all three of those fast bowlers and I reckon the length they bowled consistently was as good as I've seen," he said. "The lengths they were hitting were just impeccable." Smith refused to be drawn on whether India, who will now be without Virat Kohli, could bounce back in the second Test beginning on Boxing Day in Melbourne. "Every individual is different -- the way they take their dismissals, how they think about the game after it's finished," he said. Smith said playing a Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was always special. "It's sort of like a dream come true in a way I think, as a kid I always wanted to play in a Boxing Day Test match, I always remember watching the Boxing Day Tests at home with the family after Christmas. "To walk out on Boxing Day and play, you sort of get the shivers down your spine and the hairs on the back of your neck rise up and it's just a great feeling."

Smith hopes virus-hit Sydney can still host third India Test

The "baggy green" worn on Test debut in 1928 by Australia's greatest batsman Donald Bradman has sold for Aus$450,000 (US$340,000), a record for one of the cricket legend's caps.

Bradman, who retired with an all-time highest Test batting average of 99.94, wore the cap during the first match of his Test career against England.

Pickles auction house said Tuesday the&nbsp;baggy green had been bought by the businessman Peter Freedman, whom is the Australian founder of RODE Microphones, after initially failing to sell under the hammer.

"After negotiations the final bid and highest offer was the $450,000," Pickles executive manager Gavin Dempsey told AFP.&nbsp;

"It's still, for a Bradman cap, on record the highest price paid on the open market."

In June, Freeman spent US$6 million on a guitar played by grunge rock icon Kurt Cobain, making it the most expensive guitar in history.

Freedman said he would put Bradman's cap on display around Australia, similar to global tour plans he previously announced for the Nirvana front man's guitar.

"All too often, memorabilia such as this ends up spending its life on the wall of some board room or in some basement bar of a well-heeled sports fanatic," Freedman said in a statement.

"I want as many people to enjoy it as possible."

Bradman had gifted the cap to his neighbour, accountant Peter Dunham, who local media reported was jailed in May for eight years over a multimillion-dollar fraud.

Pickles said the cap was sold on behalf of an insolvency firm seeking to recoup some of the investors' losses.

The latest sale exceeds the Aus$425,000 (US$321,000) paid for the cap worn during his final Test in 1948 by Bradman, who died in 2001 aged 92.

However, it fell well below the Aus$1 million (US$756,000) paid for spin legend Shane Warne's baggy green when it was auctioned off to help Australian bushfire victims earlier this year.

The "baggy green" worn on Test debut in 1928 by Australia's greatest batsman Donald Bradman has sold for Aus$450,000 (US$340,000), a record for one of the cricket legend's caps.

The "baggy green" worn on Test debut in 1928 by Australia's greatest batsman Donald Bradman has sold for Aus$450,000 (US$340,000), a record for one of the cricket legend's caps. Bradman, who retired with an all-time highest Test batting average of 99.94, wore the cap during the first match of his Test career against England. Pickles auction house said Tuesday the baggy green had been bought by the businessman Peter Freedman, whom is the Australian founder of RODE Microphones, after initially failing to sell under the hammer. "After negotiations the final bid and highest offer was the $450,000," Pickles executive manager Gavin Dempsey told AFP. "It's still, for a Bradman cap, on record the highest price paid on the open market." In June, Freeman spent US$6 million on a guitar played by grunge rock icon Kurt Cobain, making it the most expensive guitar in history. Freedman said he would put Bradman's cap on display around Australia, similar to global tour plans he previously announced for the Nirvana front man's guitar. "All too often, memorabilia such as this ends up spending its life on the wall of some board room or in some basement bar of a well-heeled sports fanatic," Freedman said in a statement. "I want as many people to enjoy it as possible." Bradman had gifted the cap to his neighbour, accountant Peter Dunham, who local media reported was jailed in May for eight years over a multimillion-dollar fraud. Pickles said the cap was sold on behalf of an insolvency firm seeking to recoup some of the investors' losses. The latest sale exceeds the Aus$425,000 (US$321,000) paid for the cap worn during his final Test in 1948 by Bradman, who died in 2001 aged 92. However, it fell well below the Aus$1 million (US$756,000) paid for spin legend Shane Warne's baggy green when it was auctioned off to help Australian bushfire victims earlier this year.

Don Bradman's debut 'baggy green' cap sold for record Aus$450,000

International cricket found a way through this year's coronavirus pandemic but the strain of 'bubble life' was evident by the end of 2020.

The women's Twenty20 World Cup, won by Australia in front of a Melbourne crowd of more than 86,000 on March 8, escaped the ravages of Covid-19 but the men's game soon ground to a halt during an Australia-New Zealand series.

In a perfect summary of the topsy-turvy cricket year, India eventually went to Australia and were bowled out for 36 in a humiliating first Test defeat.

After the March lockdown, international cricket, sustained by the broadcast income from tours and tournaments, did not resume again until the England-West Indies Test series in July.

That month also saw the International Cricket Council announce it was postponing this year's men's World Twenty20 in Australia until 2022.

The England-West Indies series, played at the 'bio-secure' venues of Southampton and Manchester, established a template for cricket amid the pandemic and spared the England and Wales Cricket Board, one of the wealthier national governing bodies, from a crippling financial hit.

But the ECB still postponed its new domestic Hundred tournament, a 100 balls per side competition for men and women, while announcing 62 redundancies and pay cuts for players.

The ECB also forecast a loss of more than £100 million ($135 million) this year, potentially rising to £200 million in 2021.

West Indies won the first Test but lost the series.

Together with Pakistan, another of world cricket's financially poorer leading sides, the West Indies spent much of 2020 on the road, the two teams travelling to both England and New Zealand.

West Indies captain Jason Holder, who played in another bubble during a lucrative Indian Premier League moved to the United Arab Emirates on health grounds, articulated the stresses of cricket in confinement.

<h2>- 'Room gets smaller' -</h2>

"Going from bubble to bubble, being isolated in a room, sometimes the room just gets smaller and smaller by the second," said Holder following the second of West Indies' two innings defeats in New Zealand earlier this month.

Meanwhile England's Tom Banton and Tom Curran both withdrew from Australia's Big Bash League after citing bubble fatigue.&nbsp;

December saw England abandon their tour of South Africa after breaches of their hotel bubble.

Michael Vaughan branded the decision "alarming", with the former England captain writing in the Daily Telegraph: "I worry that in future it will only be the rich nations that can put on cricket in bio-secure bubbles."

But Judge Zak Yacoob, the interim board chairman of Cricket South Africa, criticised "an awkward narrative coming out that third-world countries can't manage these things properly".

England and West Indies took the knee as a response to the global Black Lives Matter protests against racial injustice.

Holder, however, was among those who criticised the ECB for abandoning the gesture during subsequent series against Pakistan and Australia, with Australia opting instead for a 'barefoot circle', in solidarity with Indigenous Australians, at the start of their home season.&nbsp;

November saw the ICC elect a new chairman in Greg Barclay, with the New Zealander questioning the future of a World Test Championship where the inaugural edition's points system had to be altered after several series fell victim to Covid-19.

Pre-pandemic fears that compressed touring schedules skewed the balance too heavily in favour of the home side were highlighted again by India's collapse to their record low total in an eight-wicket defeat by Australia in the first Test at Adelaide on Saturday, albeit fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood performed superbly against a side who had made 244 in the first innings.

While Pakistan overcame longstanding security concerns to persuade England, Australia and New Zealand to tour the country in 2021, the year ended with fast bowler Mohammad Amir announcing his international retirement in protest at his "shabby" treatment.

Amir had been one of the most exciting players in world cricket when he was given a five-year ban after being involved in a spot-fixing case during the 2010 Lord's Test.

The highlight of his return came when he took three wickets as Pakistan beat arch-rivals India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.

Amir's admirers hoped his international retirement would be short-lived, despite the 28-year-old saying he had been "mentally tortured" by team management.

But what sort of global game he might come back to remained to be seen.

International cricket found a way through this year's coronavirus pandemic but the strain of 'bubble life' was evident by the end of 2020. The women's Twenty20 World Cup, won by Australia in front of a Melbourne crowd of more than 86,000 on March 8, escaped the ravages of Covid-19 but the men's game soon ground to a halt during an Australia-New Zealand series.

International cricket found a way through this year's coronavirus pandemic but the strain of 'bubble life' was evident by the end of 2020. The women's Twenty20 World Cup, won by Australia in front of a Melbourne crowd of more than 86,000 on March 8, escaped the ravages of Covid-19 but the men's game soon ground to a halt during an Australia-New Zealand series. In a perfect summary of the topsy-turvy cricket year, India eventually went to Australia and were bowled out for 36 in a humiliating first Test defeat. After the March lockdown, international cricket, sustained by the broadcast income from tours and tournaments, did not resume again until the England-West Indies Test series in July. That month also saw the International Cricket Council announce it was postponing this year's men's World Twenty20 in Australia until 2022. The England-West Indies series, played at the 'bio-secure' venues of Southampton and Manchester, established a template for cricket amid the pandemic and spared the England and Wales Cricket Board, one of the wealthier national governing bodies, from a crippling financial hit. But the ECB still postponed its new domestic Hundred tournament, a 100 balls per side competition for men and women, while announcing 62 redundancies and pay cuts for players. The ECB also forecast a loss of more than £100 million ($135 million) this year, potentially rising to £200 million in 2021. West Indies won the first Test but lost the series. Together with Pakistan, another of world cricket's financially poorer leading sides, the West Indies spent much of 2020 on the road, the two teams travelling to both England and New Zealand. West Indies captain Jason Holder, who played in another bubble during a lucrative Indian Premier League moved to the United Arab Emirates on health grounds, articulated the stresses of cricket in confinement. - 'Room gets smaller' - "Going from bubble to bubble, being isolated in a room, sometimes the room just gets smaller and smaller by the second," said Holder following the second of West Indies' two innings defeats in New Zealand earlier this month. Meanwhile England's Tom Banton and Tom Curran both withdrew from Australia's Big Bash League after citing bubble fatigue. December saw England abandon their tour of South Africa after breaches of their hotel bubble. Michael Vaughan branded the decision "alarming", with the former England captain writing in the Daily Telegraph: "I worry that in future it will only be the rich nations that can put on cricket in bio-secure bubbles." But Judge Zak Yacoob, the interim board chairman of Cricket South Africa, criticised "an awkward narrative coming out that third-world countries can't manage these things properly". England and West Indies took the knee as a response to the global Black Lives Matter protests against racial injustice. Holder, however, was among those who criticised the ECB for abandoning the gesture during subsequent series against Pakistan and Australia, with Australia opting instead for a 'barefoot circle', in solidarity with Indigenous Australians, at the start of their home season. November saw the ICC elect a new chairman in Greg Barclay, with the New Zealander questioning the future of a World Test Championship where the inaugural edition's points system had to be altered after several series fell victim to Covid-19. Pre-pandemic fears that compressed touring schedules skewed the balance too heavily in favour of the home side were highlighted again by India's collapse to their record low total in an eight-wicket defeat by Australia in the first Test at Adelaide on Saturday, albeit fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood performed superbly against a side who had made 244 in the first innings. While Pakistan overcame longstanding security concerns to persuade England, Australia and New Zealand to tour the country in 2021, the year ended with fast bowler Mohammad Amir announcing his international retirement in protest at his "shabby" treatment. Amir had been one of the most exciting players in world cricket when he was given a five-year ban after being involved in a spot-fixing case during the 2010 Lord's Test. The highlight of his return came when he took three wickets as Pakistan beat arch-rivals India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Amir's admirers hoped his international retirement would be short-lived, despite the 28-year-old saying he had been "mentally tortured" by team management. But what sort of global game he might come back to remained to be seen.

Will cricket's bubble burst in 2021?

Lewis Hamilton was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year on Sunday, rounding off a remarkable year in which he became Formula One world champion for a seventh time.

Hamilton, 35, beat off competition from Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and jockey Hollie Doyle, who finished second and third respectively, to collect British sport’s premier annual award for a second time after winning it in 2014.

Hamilton won his fourth consecutive world title this year to match Michael Schumacher’s record of seven crowns.

Premier League champions Liverpool were named Team of the Year and their manager Juergen Klopp won Coach of the Year. Manchester United and England forward Marcus Rashford won the Expert Special Panel Award for his school meal campaign.

Lewis Hamilton was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year on Sunday, rounding off a remarkable year in which he became Formula One world champion for a seventh time.

Lewis Hamilton was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year on Sunday, rounding off a remarkable year in which he became Formula One world champion for a seventh time. Hamilton, 35, beat off competition from Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and jockey Hollie Doyle, who finished second and third respectively, to collect British sport’s premier annual award for a second time after winning it in 2014. Hamilton won his fourth consecutive world title this year to match Michael Schumacher’s record of seven crowns. Premier League champions Liverpool were named Team of the Year and their manager Juergen Klopp won Coach of the Year. Manchester United and England forward Marcus Rashford won the Expert Special Panel Award for his school meal campaign.

Hamilton voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Liverpool surged ahead at the top of the Premier League in record-setting fashion by thrashing Crystal Palace 7-0, while the Manchester giants kept their title challenges afloat in contrasting fashion as City edged past Southampton and United demolished Leeds 6-2.

At the other end of the table, Arsenal are looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone after an eighth defeat in 12 league games at Everton.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the Premier League weekend.

<h2>Liverpool take control</h2>

The defending champions rounded off what could be a seminal week in the title race by winning an away game in the top flight by seven goals for the first time at Selhurst Park.

Jurgen Klopp's men had opened up a three-point lead at the top of the table thanks to Roberto Firmino's last-minute winner against Tottenham in midweek and now enjoy a four-point advantage over Leicester, who inflicted another defeat on Spurs to move second.

Firmino's lack of goals had been one of Liverpool's early-season issues, but the Brazilian scored twice at Selhurst Park, as did Mohamed Salah despite only coming off the bench for the final 35 minutes.

Sadio Mane also ended a nine-game goal drought as Klopp acknowledged his front three "clicked" into gear.

With West Brom, Newcastle and Southampton to come over the festive period, Liverpool could quickly pull away from the pack unless some of the other contenders quickly find some consistency.

Chelsea have also lost their last two games prior to hosting West Ham on Monday, while City again struggled to take their chances despite seeing off high-flying Southampton.

<h2>Are Man Utd title contenders?</h2>

Should United win their game in hand, they would be Liverpool's closest challengers as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men climbed into third, five points off the top, after hitting Leeds for six.

Slow starts and poor home form have blighted United's season so far, but both were quickly forgotten as Scott McTominay scored twice inside the first three minutes in the first league meeting between the Red Devils and Leeds for 16 years.

Solskjaer's men have plenty of reason to want to reel in Liverpool as they could equal United's record tally of 20 English top-flight titles should they retain the Premier League.

Doubts remain over United's consistency and defence as Leeds could have had plenty more than two goals to show for their trip to Old Trafford.

However, in Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Mason Greenwood and Edinson Cavani they have the firepower to mount a title challenge and are the form team in the league over the past two months.

Since losing at home to Arsenal on November 1, United have won six and drawn one of their last seven league games with the only dropped points coming against City last weekend.

<h2>Arsenal facing relegation battle</h2>

That victory at Old Trafford was Arsenal's last in the league as their first full season under Mikel Arteta has spiralled from aiming to reach the Champions League to hoping to avoid the Championship next season.

The Gunners were undone in familiar fashion at Goodison Park as self-inflicted damage from Rob Holding's own goal and an inability to create chances despite dominating possession saw Everton emerge 2-1 winners.

After winning the FA Cup win August, Arteta earned a promotion from first-team coach to manager, affording him more control over recruitment.

But the Spaniard is now the favourite to be the next Premier League manager sacked with Arsenal just four points above the relegation zone and facing Chelsea next on Boxing Day.

Liverpool surged ahead at the top of the Premier League in record-setting fashion by thrashing Crystal Palace 7-0, while the Manchester giants kept their title challenges afloat in contrasting fashion as City edged past Southampton and United demolished Leeds 6-2.

Liverpool surged ahead at the top of the Premier League in record-setting fashion by thrashing Crystal Palace 7-0, while the Manchester giants kept their title challenges afloat in contrasting fashion as City edged past Southampton and United demolished Leeds 6-2. At the other end of the table, Arsenal are looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone after an eighth defeat in 12 league games at Everton. Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the Premier League weekend. Liverpool take control The defending champions rounded off what could be a seminal week in the title race by winning an away game in the top flight by seven goals for the first time at Selhurst Park. Jurgen Klopp's men had opened up a three-point lead at the top of the table thanks to Roberto Firmino's last-minute winner against Tottenham in midweek and now enjoy a four-point advantage over Leicester, who inflicted another defeat on Spurs to move second. Firmino's lack of goals had been one of Liverpool's early-season issues, but the Brazilian scored twice at Selhurst Park, as did Mohamed Salah despite only coming off the bench for the final 35 minutes. Sadio Mane also ended a nine-game goal drought as Klopp acknowledged his front three "clicked" into gear. With West Brom, Newcastle and Southampton to come over the festive period, Liverpool could quickly pull away from the pack unless some of the other contenders quickly find some consistency. Chelsea have also lost their last two games prior to hosting West Ham on Monday, while City again struggled to take their chances despite seeing off high-flying Southampton. Are Man Utd title contenders? Should United win their game in hand, they would be Liverpool's closest challengers as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men climbed into third, five points off the top, after hitting Leeds for six. Slow starts and poor home form have blighted United's season so far, but both were quickly forgotten as Scott McTominay scored twice inside the first three minutes in the first league meeting between the Red Devils and Leeds for 16 years. Solskjaer's men have plenty of reason to want to reel in Liverpool as they could equal United's record tally of 20 English top-flight titles should they retain the Premier League. Doubts remain over United's consistency and defence as Leeds could have had plenty more than two goals to show for their trip to Old Trafford. However, in Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Mason Greenwood and Edinson Cavani they have the firepower to mount a title challenge and are the form team in the league over the past two months. Since losing at home to Arsenal on November 1, United have won six and drawn one of their last seven league games with the only dropped points coming against City last weekend. Arsenal facing relegation battle That victory at Old Trafford was Arsenal's last in the league as their first full season under Mikel Arteta has spiralled from aiming to reach the Champions League to hoping to avoid the Championship next season. The Gunners were undone in familiar fashion at Goodison Park as self-inflicted damage from Rob Holding's own goal and an inability to create chances despite dominating possession saw Everton emerge 2-1 winners. After winning the FA Cup win August, Arteta earned a promotion from first-team coach to manager, affording him more control over recruitment. But the Spaniard is now the favourite to be the next Premier League manager sacked with Arsenal just four points above the relegation zone and facing Chelsea next on Boxing Day.

Three talking points from the Premier League

Manchester United blitzed Leeds 6-2 to climb to third in the Premier League on Sunday as Leicester put a major dent in Tottenham's title challenge.

The first league battle in 16 years between bitter rivals United and Leeds was keenly anticipated but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men proved far too strong at an empty Old Trafford.

United, who made a stuttering start to the season, now have 26 points -- five behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand.

They are a point adrift of second-placed Leicester, who beat Spurs 2-0 earlier to complete a miserable few days for Jose Mourinho.

United have won all six of their away games in the Premier League this season but had won just one match at home before Sunday.

Leeds were expected to provide a stern examination of United's rickety defence but Scott McTominay scored the earliest double in Premier League history, putting his side 2-0 up inside three minutes.

Marcelo Bielsa's determination to play in the same wide-open style no matter the opposition backfired as the visitors were 4-0 down in the 37th minute, with further goals from Bruno Fernandes and Victor Lindelof.

Liam Cooper pulled one back for Leeds late in the first half but United were back on the rampage after the break.

Daniel James made it 5-1 and Fernandes scored his second from the penalty spot before Stuart Dallas reduced the deficit.

A buzzing Solskjaer said the performance was "fantastic" from the first minute.

"Just imagine if there were 75,000 people in, it would have gone down in history as one of the great performances against Leeds," he told Sky Sports.

"We had to earn the right by running as much as them, that's a challenge. It could have been 12-4 -- It's that kind of game."

But the Norwegian refused to get carried away with talk about United's league position after their sixth win in seven league games.

"We are not even at the halfway point," he added. "The league position is not something we look at. We look at the improvement of the team.

"Now we are getting fitter and stronger. Our fans needed that one."

<h2>- Spurs stumble -</h2>

Spurs were top of the table until a last-minute winner for Liverpool gave the champions a 2-1 victory on Wednesday.

They now find themselves all the way back in fifth spot -- six points adrift of the champions after a damaging defeat.

Jamie Vardy put away-day specialists Leicester ahead from the penalty spot deep into first-half stoppage time after Serge Aurier barged Wesley Fofana over.

Spurs had a huge escape early in the second half as James Maddison had a goal ruled out for the most marginal of offsides.

But Leicester doubled their lead just before the hour mark via an own goal.

Vardy capitalised on some bad defending by Moussa Sissoko and his header across goal deflected off Toby Alderweireld and into the net.

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers described his team, who have won six of their seven away games this season, as "outstanding".

But he told Sky Sports: "We have to start winning at home. The group is learning all the time and that's why we're nowhere near the finished product."

Mourinho must now lift his team after a miserable few days.

"It is not a good week in terms of results," said the Spurs boss. "We could be here as the ones that broke Liverpool's record at Anfield and going into this game on a high.

"We started this game from the low of that disappointment and not getting what we deserved from that match, but Leicester also lost in their last match but came with a positive attitude. It's a game that we've lost with the penalty and the own goal."

Sam Allardyce's return to the Premier League as West Brom manager got off to a terrible start as the Baggies were outclassed 3-0 by local rivals Aston Villa, who moved up to ninth.

Anwar El Ghazi put Villa ahead inside five minutes before Jake Livermore's red card for a lunge on Jack Grealish gave Allardyce's men a mountain to climb.

Dean Smith's side dominated the entire match but had to wait until six minutes from time to double their lead when Grealish teed up Bertrand Traore for a composed finish before El Ghazi rounded off the scoring from the penalty spot after Grealish had been fouled in the box.

West Brom remain second bottom, three points off safety.

Bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United doubled their points tally for the season but were cruelly denied a first win of the campaign after Brighton's Danny Welbeck cancelled out Jayden Bogle's opener in a 1-1 draw.

Manchester United blitzed Leeds 6-2 to climb to third in the Premier League on Sunday as Leicester put a major dent in Tottenham's title challenge. The first league battle in 16 years between bitter rivals United and Leeds was keenly anticipated but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men proved far too strong at an empty Old Trafford.

Manchester United blitzed Leeds 6-2 to climb to third in the Premier League on Sunday as Leicester put a major dent in Tottenham's title challenge. The first league battle in 16 years between bitter rivals United and Leeds was keenly anticipated but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men proved far too strong at an empty Old Trafford. United, who made a stuttering start to the season, now have 26 points -- five behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand. They are a point adrift of second-placed Leicester, who beat Spurs 2-0 earlier to complete a miserable few days for Jose Mourinho. United have won all six of their away games in the Premier League this season but had won just one match at home before Sunday. Leeds were expected to provide a stern examination of United's rickety defence but Scott McTominay scored the earliest double in Premier League history, putting his side 2-0 up inside three minutes. Marcelo Bielsa's determination to play in the same wide-open style no matter the opposition backfired as the visitors were 4-0 down in the 37th minute, with further goals from Bruno Fernandes and Victor Lindelof. Liam Cooper pulled one back for Leeds late in the first half but United were back on the rampage after the break. Daniel James made it 5-1 and Fernandes scored his second from the penalty spot before Stuart Dallas reduced the deficit. A buzzing Solskjaer said the performance was "fantastic" from the first minute. "Just imagine if there were 75,000 people in, it would have gone down in history as one of the great performances against Leeds," he told Sky Sports. "We had to earn the right by running as much as them, that's a challenge. It could have been 12-4 -- It's that kind of game." But the Norwegian refused to get carried away with talk about United's league position after their sixth win in seven league games. "We are not even at the halfway point," he added. "The league position is not something we look at. We look at the improvement of the team. "Now we are getting fitter and stronger. Our fans needed that one." - Spurs stumble - Spurs were top of the table until a last-minute winner for Liverpool gave the champions a 2-1 victory on Wednesday. They now find themselves all the way back in fifth spot -- six points adrift of the champions after a damaging defeat. Jamie Vardy put away-day specialists Leicester ahead from the penalty spot deep into first-half stoppage time after Serge Aurier barged Wesley Fofana over. Spurs had a huge escape early in the second half as James Maddison had a goal ruled out for the most marginal of offsides. But Leicester doubled their lead just before the hour mark via an own goal. Vardy capitalised on some bad defending by Moussa Sissoko and his header across goal deflected off Toby Alderweireld and into the net. Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers described his team, who have won six of their seven away games this season, as "outstanding". But he told Sky Sports: "We have to start winning at home. The group is learning all the time and that's why we're nowhere near the finished product." Mourinho must now lift his team after a miserable few days. "It is not a good week in terms of results," said the Spurs boss. "We could be here as the ones that broke Liverpool's record at Anfield and going into this game on a high. "We started this game from the low of that disappointment and not getting what we deserved from that match, but Leicester also lost in their last match but came with a positive attitude. It's a game that we've lost with the penalty and the own goal." Sam Allardyce's return to the Premier League as West Brom manager got off to a terrible start as the Baggies were outclassed 3-0 by local rivals Aston Villa, who moved up to ninth. Anwar El Ghazi put Villa ahead inside five minutes before Jake Livermore's red card for a lunge on Jack Grealish gave Allardyce's men a mountain to climb. Dean Smith's side dominated the entire match but had to wait until six minutes from time to double their lead when Grealish teed up Bertrand Traore for a composed finish before El Ghazi rounded off the scoring from the penalty spot after Grealish had been fouled in the box. West Brom remain second bottom, three points off safety. Bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United doubled their points tally for the season but were cruelly denied a first win of the campaign after Brighton's Danny Welbeck cancelled out Jayden Bogle's opener in a 1-1 draw.

Man Utd hammer out Premier League title warning as Spurs stumble again

Karim Benzema scored the opening goal and created two others as Real Madrid won 3-1 at Eibar on Sunday to move level on points with city rivals Atletico at the top of La Liga.

Benzema and Luka Modric scored inside the first 13 minutes in the Basque Country to put Zinedine Zidane's men on their way to a fourth straight league win, with Lucas Vazquez scoring a late third after Garcia Kike pulled one back for Eibar.

Real sit behind Atletico on goal difference, but have the better head-to-head record, which is how level teams are split at the end of the season.

Diego Simeone's Atletico have two games in hand, though, after Saturday's 3-1 success against Elche.

Fifth-placed Barcelona are eight points adrift of the Madrid pair following their 2-2 draw this weekend with Valencia.

Eibar started brightly, but fell behind in the sixth minute as Rodrygo fed Benzema to slot in his seventh league goal of the season.

Benzema, who was hailed by compatriot Zidane as the greatest ever French centre-forward earlier this week, created the second goal seven minutes later, cutting inside and picking out Modric who fired home right-footed.

The striker should have doubled his tally in the 16th minute, but he headed Modric's cross past the post.

Real went close to a third goal again when home goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic kept out Rodrygo's close-range effort, but Eibar got themselves back into the match in spectacular style before the half-hour mark.

Kike collected the ball outside the area before curling a fine finish past Thibaut Courtois.

Benzema thought he had restored the visitors' two-goal lead before half-time, but was flagged for a marginal offside, with VAR upholding the linesman's decision.

Eibar, sitting 14th in the table, wasted an excellent chance to equalise 11 minutes after the break, as Takashi Inui shot wide following a rare mistake from Real captain Sergio Ramos.

The reigning champions struggled to put the game to bed in the second half, with Marco Asensio striking a free-kick narrowly off target shortly after coming on as a substitute.

The capital giants survived a late scare when VAR decided not to award Eibar a penalty after the ball struck Ramos's arm.

Vazquez wrapped up the points in injury time with a cool finish from a tight angle, having been played in by Benzema.

Earlier on Sunday, former Spain international Roberto Soldado scored twice as Granada moved into sixth with a 2-0 win over Real Betis, while Getafe beat Cadiz 2-0 and Celta Vigo made it four straight victories by seeing off Alaves by the same scoreline.

Karim Benzema scored the opening goal and created two others as Real Madrid won 3-1 at Eibar on Sunday to move level on points with city rivals Atletico at the top of La Liga.

Karim Benzema scored the opening goal and created two others as Real Madrid won 3-1 at Eibar on Sunday to move level on points with city rivals Atletico at the top of La Liga. Benzema and Luka Modric scored inside the first 13 minutes in the Basque Country to put Zinedine Zidane's men on their way to a fourth straight league win, with Lucas Vazquez scoring a late third after Garcia Kike pulled one back for Eibar. Real sit behind Atletico on goal difference, but have the better head-to-head record, which is how level teams are split at the end of the season. Diego Simeone's Atletico have two games in hand, though, after Saturday's 3-1 success against Elche. Fifth-placed Barcelona are eight points adrift of the Madrid pair following their 2-2 draw this weekend with Valencia. Eibar started brightly, but fell behind in the sixth minute as Rodrygo fed Benzema to slot in his seventh league goal of the season. Benzema, who was hailed by compatriot Zidane as the greatest ever French centre-forward earlier this week, created the second goal seven minutes later, cutting inside and picking out Modric who fired home right-footed. The striker should have doubled his tally in the 16th minute, but he headed Modric's cross past the post. Real went close to a third goal again when home goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic kept out Rodrygo's close-range effort, but Eibar got themselves back into the match in spectacular style before the half-hour mark. Kike collected the ball outside the area before curling a fine finish past Thibaut Courtois. Benzema thought he had restored the visitors' two-goal lead before half-time, but was flagged for a marginal offside, with VAR upholding the linesman's decision. Eibar, sitting 14th in the table, wasted an excellent chance to equalise 11 minutes after the break, as Takashi Inui shot wide following a rare mistake from Real captain Sergio Ramos. The reigning champions struggled to put the game to bed in the second half, with Marco Asensio striking a free-kick narrowly off target shortly after coming on as a substitute. The capital giants survived a late scare when VAR decided not to award Eibar a penalty after the ball struck Ramos's arm. Vazquez wrapped up the points in injury time with a cool finish from a tight angle, having been played in by Benzema. Earlier on Sunday, former Spain international Roberto Soldado scored twice as Granada moved into sixth with a 2-0 win over Real Betis, while Getafe beat Cadiz 2-0 and Celta Vigo made it four straight victories by seeing off Alaves by the same scoreline.

Benzema stars as Real Madrid move level with Atletico at La Liga summit

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