Canada defeated Cuba 17-0 on the first day of the WBSC Softball Americas Olympic qualifier ©WBSC

Cuba suffered a heavy defeat to hosts Canada on the opening day of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Softball Americas Olympic qualifier in British Columbia.

The Canadian side, the silver medallists at this month's Lima 2019 Pan American Games, romped home 17-0 at Softball City in Surrey. 

The victory was the greatest of the day, although Mexico comfortably defeated Peru 8-0. 

Brazil and Puerto Rico both recorded 7-0 victories against British Virgin Islands and Argentina respectively as their opponents have both dropped out of the tournament.

Venezuela managed a 7-3 win against Dominican Republic, while Guatemala beat Bahamas 9-4. 

All 10 teams are battling for two spots at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, with six teams set to compete next year in total.

Softball is returning to the Olympic programme after a 12-year absence, having last made an appearance at Beijing 2008. 

The opening round of competition continues tomorrow with another six matches.

Venezuela take on British Virgin Islands, while Argentina play Canada and Brazil meet Peru. 

Dominican Republic will then come up against Mexico, with Puerto Rico facing Guatemala and Bahamas taking on Cuba. 

United States have already qualified for Tokyo 2020 after winning the world title last year.