Maria Sharapova reaches Rome Masters final

Maria Sharapova progressed to the final of the Rome Masters courtesy of a 6-3 6-4 victory over Angelique Kerber this afternoon.

Former world number one Sharapova began the encounter brightly and went on to brek her German opponent early in the opening set.

The Russian pressed home her advantage to wrap up the first set 6-4.

One break was also all that was required in the next set for the Sharapova to wrap up the win and book her place in tomorrow's final.

She will take on Li Na for the trophy after the Chinese player was handed a walkover against Serena Williams.