Curling news - Scotland's mixed curling world title defence gathering pace

The rink of Robin Brydone, Rebecca Morrison, Ross Whyte and Leeanne McKenzie have started in impression fashion in Kelowna.

The Scots have won four from four so far in Group A, including wins on Monday over both England and Wales.

They are joined at the top of Group A by Germany who missed out on the play-offs 12 months ago.

In the morning, Brydone and co downed Greg Dunn's England rink – who have just one win from four games – 11-3 while in the evening Adrian Meikle's Welsh rink – also with only one win to their name, were downed 7-4.

Brydone said: "We knew when we saw the draw came out that the home nations day was an exciting one to have. You know, playing against England and Wales, it was good to get two wins. It was our first two game day, so it was good to get wins on the board.

"We said coming in today it would be nice to win two games and try to pull away from the pack a little. Obviously, Germany are tied with us, so it'll be a big game when we play them.

"We have another two-game day tomorrow so hopefully we'll get another couple of wins."

Sticking with the home nations, and Ireland bounced back on Monday with victory over Brazil to level their record at two wins and two losses in Group B.

Russia are unbeaten and lead the way in that Group but Ireland skip James Russell is feeling confident.

"That's a bit of relief. We were really close against the Swiss last night, that was a hard one to take. But we came out and had a rough start, but got there in the end.

"The consistency is key, we played really well last night, played really well the second half of this game, so just keep it going. Keep the momentum up."

In Group C, Czech Republic are unbeaten and top of the pile with Spain, France and Sweden giving chase as well as impressive debutants Chinese Taipei who have won three and lost just once so far.

In Group D Norway are the early pacesetters from Slovakia, with Canada – hosts and runners-up last year – not far behind.