Italy take over at the top of the Open standings for the first time. A 24-6 VP win over Switzerland in the last match of the day secured the top spot for the Azurri as Russia were losing 10-20 to Poland. Norway and Poland lie joint third and it looks like these four plus one from Greece, France, Israel, Denmark, Bulgaria and Austria will be going to Bali. Of the chasing pack, those last three will need a big finish to get into the frame.

The English Ladies lost 13-17 to their closest challengers, The Netherlands, but still hold a comfortable lead at the top. Germany's surge continued and they lie third, with Italy also scoring heavily and up to fourth, ahead of Austria, France and Israel. Fourth through seventh are covered by only 7 VPs.

In the Seniors, France 2, the holders, are being caught by Poland 1, the French lead being down to 8.25 VPs. Sweden are third with The Netherlands and Italy 2 tied for fourth place. The medals will probably go to those five teams, though nothing is certain in this wonderful game of ours.