Pundit and former Lakeside champion Mark Webster has picked the opening-round ties at the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace that he thinks fans should not miss. This year’s expanded £5m tournament features 128 players, with Round One played across nine days from December 11–19. Here are Webster’s highlights and why each match stands out.
Ricky Evans vs Man Lok Leung — Friday, December 12 from 7pm
Webster expects a lively, fast-paced contest. Ricky has a history of raising his game on big nights and can find form at the World Championship; the key for him is converting chances and maintaining consistency. If Ricky hits his stride, Webster tips him to prevail.
Gian van Veen vs Cristo Reyes — Friday, December 12 from 7pm
This is one of the more compelling storylines for Webster: Cristo’s comeback versus Gian, who has yet to register a win at Ally Pally. Having already claimed a major, Gian looks capable of changing that here, and Webster thinks this is a match with potential for a statement performance.
Andrew Gilding vs Cam Crabtree — Saturday, December 13 from 12.30pm
Cameron impressed at the Grand Slam, but Webster believes Gilding’s experience will be the deciding factor. He expects an awkward tie where Gilding’s know-how could edge him through to the next round.
Cameron Menzies vs Charlie Manby — Monday, December 15 from 12.30pm
Charlie has produced big averages to earn his spot, yet Webster feels Menzies’ development and composure over the season give him the advantage. He predicts Menzies will find a way to win and possibly build momentum into later rounds.
Dirk van Duijvenbode vs Andy Baetens — Monday, December 15 from 7pm
Baetens is a top Belgian and a former WDF World Champion, but Webster notes we’ve seen him less often on the biggest stages. Dirk’s Ally Pally pedigree suggests he can handle the challenge, though Webster expects a tough encounter.
Connor Scutt vs Simon Whitlock — Monday, December 15 from 7pm
Whitlock’s return to Ally Pally after missing last year is a welcome storyline. Webster anticipates a tight match and thinks Scutt might just have enough to win, while acknowledging the intrigue of Whitlock’s comeback.
Dave Chisnall vs Fallon Sherrock — Thursday, December 18 from 7pm
Both players have had mixed seasons in Webster’s view. With questions over Chisnall’s form and Sherrock not quite hitting top gear away from the oche, Webster still expects Chisnall to be the stronger player and to progress.
Beau Greaves vs Daryl Gurney — Friday, December 19 from 7pm
This is a draw many seeded players would rather avoid. Webster believes Beau can cause an upset and predicts she will beat Gurney, pointing to Gurney’s inconsistent recent form and the matchup dynamics favoring Beau.
Broadcasting
Sky Sports will again televise a full slate of PDC events, including the Premier League, World Cup of Darts, World Matchplay, World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and the World Darts Championship, with streaming options available for viewers.