South Africa, seeking to retain the title they claimed in 2016 in Miami, began with a commanding 92-11 win over Singapore at the Makerere University in Kampala.

It marked the first time at this tournament the favourites had not scored over 100 goals. 

The South African side resumed normal service in their second match of the day, though, dispatching neighbours Zimbabwe 105-12.

The results saw South Africa continue their 100 per cent start to the evetand moved them to four wins from their opening four games.

Uganda, considered the most likely challengers to South Africa for the title, thrashed Sri Lanka 132-24.

Kenya also won both of their matches today, beating Zimbabwe 54-36 and the United States 44-40.

Concerns had arisen before the event over the readiness of the venue as organisers claimed they were happy for the competition to go ahead in an incomplete facility and without some of the original components planned in the initial design.

In a statement sent to insidethegames, an International University Sports Federation (FISU) spokesperson said: "Preparing the new Makere University Arena in time for the FISU World University Netball Championships necessitated working 24 hours a day. 

"FISU carefully monitored developments and when play started, it was in a safe venue with a field of play worthy of the world’s top university netball players. 

"FISU is grateful to the Association of Uganda University Sports and Makere University for this opportunity to bring an important FISU competition to a new destination.""