Xia Xuanze, one of China's top shuttlers, won his opener at the badminton Swiss Open, defeating England veteran in two straight sets.

Xia beat England's veteran, Smith Andrew Thrusday morning (Beijing Time), in two straight sets: 15-10, 15-14 to reach the next round of the men's singles.

Meanwhile, up and coming stars, Zhu Ling and Wang Ling, have both triumphed in their first round contests in the women's singles. Zhu beat her German rival, 11-8, 11-1, while Wang defeated her Australian opponent, 11-1,11-8.

Chinese players have also sailed to the next round in the doubles competitions.

(CRI English January 5, 2006)