Action began today at the Rhythmic Gymnastics Junior World Championships in Moscow ©FIG

Home athletes Anastasia Simakova and Lala Kramarenko topped the rope and ball qualification standings, respectively, as action began today at the Rhythmic Gymnastics Junior World Championships in Russia's capital Moscow.

Simakova scored 19.800 points in the rope at Irina Viner-Usmanova Gymnastics Palace. 

Bulgaria's Eva Brezalieva finished second with 17.900 points, while Belarus' Darya Tkatcheva was third with 17.250.

In the ball, three-times all-around Russian junior champion Kramarenko led the way with 22.000 points and was followed by Italy's Sofia Raffaeli with 19.600 and Israel's Noga Block with 18.700.

A total of eight athletes have qualified for each final, with three reserves.

Both finals are due to take place on Sunday (July 21).

Action is due to continue tomorrow with qualification in the clubs and ribbon.

The event is for gymnasts aged between 13 and 15.