Sport In Brief: 18/07/2009

Qin leaps to golden start for China

Qin Kai won the men's one-metre springboard event as China took the first gold medal at the World Aquatic Championships, which began in Rome yesterday.

Qin, who won gold in the synchronised three metres competition at the Olympics in Beijing last year with partner Wang Feng and bronze in the individual event, triumphed with a score of 449. His compatriot Xinhua Zhang was second with 445.90. Britain's Peter Waterfield came a creditable fourth.

Worcester release Ashes hero Jones

Former England fast bowler Simon Jones will not have his contract renewed by Worcestershire. Jones has failed to overcome a series of injuries which have marred his career since the 2005 Ashes series, and Worcestershire's decision may hasten his retirement. Jones, 30, last appeared for England at Trent Bridge in 2005. He has since undergone several knee operations and is currently ruled out for the remainder of the English season because of his latest surgery.

Davydenko shocked by Fognini

Fabio Fognini upset world No 11 Nikolay Davydenko to reach his first tour semi-final this year as the Italian's dream run continued in the Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart yesterday. The 22-year-old, ranked 67th and yet to win a title on the main ATP tour, beat the Russian 6-1, 3-6, 7-5. The Italian next faces fourth-seeded Victor Hanescu. The Romanian had booked his place in the last four with a 7-6, 6-4 win over Frenchman Alexandre Sidorenko.