However, Yan and Zhou currently sit third in Group A on frame difference, as Brazil and Wales both recorded 5-0 wins over Malaysia and Norway respectively.

Though China was expected to start strongly, there was a big upset in the first round of matches in Group D, as outsiders Thailand overcame second seeds Scotland.

World number two John Higgins put in a valiant effort, making a break of 130, the largest of the tournament so far. But this proved to be no more than a consolation as the Thai pair of Thepchaiya Un Nooh and Noppon Saengkham recorded an unlikely win.

John Higgins of the Scotland team made a break of 130, the largest of the tournament so far, in the match against Thailand in the 2017 snooker World Cup in Wuxi, China, on July 3. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Northern Ireland currently top Group D after beating Cyprus 4-1 in an epic match. Israel edged out India 3-2 in the other game in the group.

England were determined not to suffer a fate to Scotland in their opening Group C match against Switzerland, and crowd favorite Judd Trump and his partner Barry Hawkins duly rattled up a rapid-fire 5-0 victory. They look a strong contender for the title.

The other matches in Group C were much tighter affairs. Malta overcame Australia 3-2, while Iran beat Pakistan by the same score line.