The Bowls World Cup opened in Australia ©World Bowls

Defending men's champion Jeremy Henry began his Bowls World Cup defence with two victories at the Warilla Bowls and Recreation Club.

The Australian, looking for a fifth title on home soil, began by beating American Charlie Herbert 10-4, 12-5.

He followed up at the New South Wales venue with a 14-4, 9-7 success over Frank De Vries of The Netherlands.

It means Henry is in a strong position in section one of the men's event.

His compatriot David Ferguson, playing in section two, also started strongly as he saw off Turkey's Ozkan Akar in his first match 8-7, 9-9.

He then defeated Ali Forsyth of New Zealand 14-3, 6-9, 2-1.

Defending champion Jeremy Henry and Jo Edwards began with victories ©World Bowls
Defending champion Jeremy Henry and Jo Edwards began with victories ©World Bowls

In the women's event, New Zealand's defending champion Jo Edwards began with victory, seeing off Guernsey's Lucy Beere 10-3, 3-10, 2-1 in her sole section two match.

Australia's Rebecca Van Asch won twice in section one, firstly 13-3, 11-4 against American Alice Birkinshaw.

She then beat New Zealander Val Smith 15-3, 5-10, 4-0.

The tournament continues tomorrow and runs until March 14.

Twenty-three countries and territories are taking part in the singles tournaments.