A big shock in this morning's swimming heats saw Ben Proud disqualified from the 50m butterfly for moving in his blocks before the starting signal. Team England's appeal against the decision has been dismissed by an independent panel and he is now out of the event.

“Whilst this is incredibly disappointing for Ben, the team and England we are all looking to move on quickly from this decision," said Team England’s swimming team leader Grant Robins. “We appreciate the time and focus dedicated to hearing our appeal, but Ben will now move his focus on to the 50m freestyle on Monday (April 9), and on the 17 English swimmers who are in semis and finals tonight.”

Proud is the reigning world champion and was the defending Commonwealth Games gold medallist in the 50m butterfly.

“Coming into the competition there is always apprehension ahead of the first race," he added. "With 10,000 fans in the crowd I wanted to give them something to cheer about by delivering a fast time. Unfortunately before the start signal I was judged to have moved my leg and the referee deemed this enough for a disqualification. I really wanted to come into the competition to retain both my titles and to have that opportunity taken away in the first heat is heart breaking.

“This has been four years of dedicated training and consistency – I feel I am in the shape of my life and am gutted to miss out on the opportunity to show what I can do. But the motivation is already there to come back in four years’ time and regain my title in the event I love."

Chad le Clos of South Africa was the fastest qualifier for tonight's semi-finals and will now be the firm favourite for gold.