Vanesa Abrisqueta Iturregui and Maria Ayala Fernandez both scored doubles as Spain opened Pool C with an emphatic win.

Great Britain, who Spain face tomorrow, also made a hugely impressive start by hammering India 15-0.

In Pool D, hosts Italy defeated international debutants Iran 5-0, while Finland comfortably overcame Latvia 8-1.

Canada’s first match in Pool A saw them beat Switzerland 8-0 to join Czech Republic, 5-1 winners against Sweden, at the top of the standings.

Goals from Lyndsey Fry and Allison Era proved the difference as the United States beat France 3-1 in Pool B, where there was also a 4-2 win for Australia over New Zealand. 

Pool play action in Italy is due to continue tomorrow with the playoffs set to begin on Wednesday (June 15).

The men's competition is scheduled to start on June 20.