The defending champions cruised into a 10-0 lead over the British team in Solingen in Group A.

Britain were able to get on the scoreboard as their two runs forced a ninth inning to be played.

With darkness descending, the match was called off for the day and the tie will be resumed "on another day".

Israel secured victory in Group A as they triumphed 6-1 against the Czech Republic.

Hosts Germany were due to round off the opening day of matches in the group with a contest against Sweden.

Spain, the 2016 runners-up, started their campaign with a narrow victory over Croatia in Bonn.

Despite a strong performance from their rivals, the Spanish team secured a 3-2 success in their first Group B fixture.

Belgium recorded a 5-1 win over Austria in the second Group B match.

Italy, who will hope to better their bronze medal from the last staging of the tournament, play France in their opening game.

The top four teams at the conclusion of the round robin group phase will advance to the quarter-finals.

The gold medal match and third place playoff will also take place on September 14.