Mark Randall and Jean Basson did likewise in the men's 400m freestyle and the men's 4x100m team, defending Commonwealth champions, went through after being placed third behind Australia and England for tonight's final.

Rousseau has suddenly loomed as a major medal prospect after winning his heat in 1 minute 57.45sec, which was the second fastest of the morning, though it has to be said that you could throw a blanket over qualifiers second to eighth, with six men inside 1:58. One of those was Le Clos, on 1:57.45.

The big surprise of the men's 200m butterfly was the elimination of strong gold medal favourite, Nick D'Arcy, which makes tonight's final even more of a lottery, but the good news is that South Africa is holding two tickets.

In the men's 400m freestyle, Mark Randall clocked 3:51.40 in winning his heat for fifth quickest overall, while Olympian Jean Basson was involved in a tough heat that included Canada's gold medal favourite Ryan Cochrane.

Basson stuck to his task gamely to finish third in 3:53.06, which was seventh fastest of the morning.

The men's 4x100m team should be boosted by the appearance of Roland Schoeman for the final, but likely teammates Gideon Louw, Darian Townsend and Graeme Moore all looked in good nick as they qualified third in 3:18.94, with Australia claiming lane four in 3:15.18 and England showing up as a threat with 3:17.60.

Meanwhile, the Opening Ceremony of the games proved to be a showstopper event, with SASCOC President Gideon Sam describing it as one of the best he has ever seen.

"What a cultural display by people who are not shy to showcase their culture to the world. Well done India. It ranks with one of the best that I have seen."

Sam has generally been impressed with what he has seen at the athlete's village, from accommodation, to food and hygiene. The warmth of the locals has also made a huge impact.

"There are so many similarities to what was written before South Africa hosted the Soccer World Cup and what has happened here in New Delhi. We, as South Africans, refused to accept the situation without seeing for ourselves and we have always given our commitment to India.

"This wonderful opening ceremony vindicates our stance and attitude. I am convinced the Games will prove as successful and I am particularly pleased to be here," he said.

SASCOC CEO Tubby Reddy echoed similar sentiments, saying the best qualities of Indian culture were showcased to the world.

"This was a highly organised event. It was well co-coordinated and all the teams looked good. India showed the Commonwealth and indeed the world that they can organise and organise well. The logistical arrangement were also top class," he said.

Sourced by SA - The Good News via BuaNews