Canada take rhythmic team gold

MELBOURNE, Mar 24 (Reuters) Canada, inspired by Alexandra Orlando, won the gold medal in the team rhythmic gymnastics at the Commonwealth Games today.

The 19-year-old Orlando finished first in each apparatus to lead the Canadians to a total of 128.775 points.

Malaysia claimed the silver with 124.175 and Australia the bronze with 117.175.

''I'm very happy with my ball and rope,'' the 19-year-old Orlando told reporters. ''I was a little nervous because of the crowd.'' Carly Orava and Yana Tsikaridze completed the Canadian team.

Reuters PDS DB1838