The Black Ferns 7s team began their Olympic gold medal defence campaign on a high note after beating China 45-5 in their opening pool match this morning.

The Black Ferns scored seven times, compared to China, who scored only once.

Michaela Blyde scored four times, Stacey Waaka scored twice and Sarah Hirini scored once.

The match was dominated throughout by New Zealand, who will be looking to defend their title again in Paris.

New Zealand’s next match is today at 7:30 against Canada. Tomorrow at 2:30 the team plays their final group match against Fiji.

The women’s quarterfinals start tomorrow at 7am, while the semifinals start on Wednesday at 1.30am. The women’s final is on Wednesday at 5.45am.