China took full advantage of these upsets to move into second place as they demolished Chinese Taipei 25-2. The overnight leaders Thailand demonstrated that they are certainly going to be involved in the race for a top four finish as they came through their longest day with excellent victories against both The Netherlands and USA1 , which sees them in third place just ahead of the latter of those two teams.

Then come Canada and The Netherlands, followed by Brazil, Denmark and Norway, these last three teams being covered by just half a victory point.

The field is so tightly packed that it is still theoretically possible for any of the teams to qualify, although New Zealand, CAC and Chinese Taipei already have a minor mountain to climb.

In today's matches Israel start with the bye but then face two dangerous opponents in the shape of The Netherlands and USA I. Another highlight promises to be the encounter between Thailand and China. Watch out for Canada, who will be hoping to score heavily against three of the struggling teams.