Bowls: Lachlan Sims leading 2021 Mad Dog singles

The 20-year-old Trevallyn bowler went through the day undefeated, bettering Paul Costello, Patrick Smith, Connor Munnings and Will Springer with former champion Tim Douce and Phil Munday awaiting him on Sunday.

Despite the quality of visiting bowlers, tournament organiser Sam Springer wasn't surprised to see Sims at the top.

"He's actually performed pretty well here over the past few years and fallen at the last hurdle a couple of times, so there's no surprise to see him at the top and he's in very good form," he said.

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"There's been a terrific crowd here watching, it's been a terrific day weather-wise. This is the first year we are using two greens as well so there's been plenty of spectators and plenty of people enjoying the day."

Scottish duo Kevin Anderson and Ryan Burnett round out the top three and lead the international fleet, while pre-tournament favourite Ryan Bester sits off the pack in 19 and may not move onto the next stage.

Sunday's action sees two more matches per player before a top 20 and then a top 12 is decided with finals taking place around 2.30pm at East Launceston Bowls Club.

Lachlan Sims - 82 points, Kevin Anderson - 80, Ryan Burnett - 76, Tim Douce - 72, Mark Strochnetter - 69, Isaac Maugan - 69, Phil Mundy - 68, Michael Sims - 67, Katelyn Inch - 65.5, Taelyn Male - 64, David Minns - 64.