LeVinc Samuels defeated Australian Chris Castle to place himself in a great position to qualify for the next round on the opening day of the International Bowling Federation World Cup in Hong Kong on Tuesday.

Samuels claimed victory with the last ball of the contest as he and his opponent went strike for strike during the match. With four wins and two losses, the Bermudian was tied for fourth in group C, with a chance to make it to the round of 32.

“It was a nice little shift that I put in today,” the 37-year-old told The Royal Gazette. “I was happy with the way I bowled, even though I felt I could have done better.

“I would like to do a little bit better in the second shift. I have seven more games to go, and with the top four in each pool qualifying for the next round, at this moment I’m tied for fourth.

“I’m bowling again on Thursday and if I have a day like I did today, I feel like I should be able to qualify for the round of 32. My chances are fairly good at the moment. I just feel like I have to equal the type of day I had today, or slightly better.”

Captain Lamar Richardson, who was also in action on Tuesday, won three and lost the same number of matches. He is tied for sixth spot with nine points in group A.

Wednesday will see David Maycock and Dayvon Tucker hit the lanes for their first round of matches, before all the Bermudians have a go on Thursday.

Maycock, the most experienced Bermudian tenpin bowler, is determined to put on a great show when he hits the lanes. It has not been smooth sailing for the 40-year-old, who has struggled with the 12-hour time difference between the Asian country and Bermuda. He also lost one of his bowling balls in transit.

“The first couple of days have been great so far, and this is my second time in Hong Kong,” Maycock said.

“I’m just trying to deal with the jet lag from flying over here with the time difference and all. We had two days of unofficial practice and on Monday we had official practice on the tournament oil pattern being used.

“The bowling ball hasn’t been returned. I think someone stole it in transit. I bought the same ball and got it drilled, so I have all six balls in my arsenal and I am ready to go.

“Things like this happen, and this is why I need funding and sponsors to help me deal with all these expenses.

“I’m looking forward to competing at this top level once again. I just need to put the pieces to the puzzle all together and do me.

“I’ve avoided getting caught up watching everyone else and focused on the task ahead, make good shots and the rest will come. It’s match play style, so every shot matters.”