Curling-Defending Canadian women's champions lose lead ahead of title defense

The Team Canada Kerri Einarson rink's bid for a fifth consecutive Canadian women's curling title suffered a blow shortly before play was set to begin as Curling Canada said on Friday that lead Briane Harris is ineligible for the tournament.

Curling Canada did not provide a reason for Harris not being able to play in the Feb. 16-25 tournament that determines which squad will represent Canada at the world championship in March, and said no further comment would be forthcoming.

"Curling Canada has been made aware that Briane Harris of Team Canada is ineligible to compete in the Scotties Tournament of Hearts," the national governing body said on social media.

"No further information is available at this time. There will be no further comment on this situation from Curling Canada or members of Team Canada."

The announcement came shortly before Team Canada faces Team Quebec in Calgary later on the opening day of the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, an event that features the top 18 women's team from across the country.

Harris played a major role in Team Einarson winning the last four national championships.