The two world class bowlers were due to open the event yesterday morning and compete in both the mixed pairs and ladies’ fours but illness put a stop to this.

Carnival organiser Rhonda Reeves received word on Monday afternoon that Ms Murphy was suffering from a virus that had drastically deteriorated her normally controllable asthma.

Organisers are hopeful that the two players will find the time to visit the club at another yet to be determined time in the future.

Despite the lose of Ms Murphy and Ms Moran the first day got off to a perfect start with all three of the Glen Innes greens filled with local and visiting players for the mixed pairs.

Action will continue during the remainder of the week with the ladies’ fours to be played today, men’s pairs taking place tomorrow and Saturday and mixed fours on Sunday.