Eighteen pairs started out in the Swiss Pairs yesterday, enjoying the more relaxed and friendly atmosphere produced by not having to play behind screens.
 

Now we know why Italy are the only squad to have a team doctor here in Paris! Having started the last quarter ahead by 60.5 IMPs, the Italians had to face a tremendous comeback from the defending champion, USA2 team. When the di Bello brothers played in a transfer bid on the penultimate board while USA2 bid and made a grand slam, the lead was down to just 1.5 IMPs. The same Italian pair showed tremendous character in bidding another grand slam on the very next and final deal to hang onto that lead and reach the final. Meanwhile, Denmark were made to battle hard by a spirited Polish team but came through without having to suffer quite the same levels of stress as their final opponents.

The Swiss Pairs is at the half-way point. It is very close at the top but the leaders are Taweesith/Jaturong of Thailand, 1 IMP ahead of Ng/Mak of China Hong Kong.