Group B heavyweights Japan were expected to overwhelm winless Austria in their meeting at the Estadio Francisco I. Madero in Saltillo.

The world number one ranked side lived up to expectations by storming into a 16-0 lead, which saw the game ending after just four-and-a-half innings due to the mercy rule.

Australia joined Japan at the top of the standings after they secured a 15-2 victory over Argentina.

The top two nations will head into their head-to-head meeting, tomorrow, assured of places in the super round but will hope to clinch top spot in the group.

Argentina’s defeat gave Chinese Taipei and Nicaragua the chance to emerge as the clear favourite to earn the third qualifying spot in the pool.

Nicaragua secured a 10-5 victory to move into the final super round place, which they will seal by beating Argentina tomorrow.

Group A saw Panama and South Korea book their spots in the next stage of the tournament, with both nations boosting perfect records in Mexico.

Panama overcame bottom side South Africa 9-1, while South Korea earned a 7-2 victory over Venezuela.

The top two will meet tomorrow to decide the Group A winners but the battle for the third qualifying spot continues.

Mexico are currently in pole position to earn the berth after the host nation defeated rivals Czech Republic 14-4.

They will be expected to seal their place in the super round when they take on South Africa tomorrow.