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  • Luke Littler on ‘breaking records like Michael van Gerwen’ after World Darts Championship win over Andrew Gilding

    Luke Littler on ‘breaking records like Michael van Gerwen’ after World Darts Championship win over Andrew Gilding

    One of the biggest stories from the Alexandra Palace so far has been 16-year-old Luke Littler; the World Darts Championship runs all the way until the final on January 3 – we’re back on Friday at 12.30pm, live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 22/12/23 7:01am

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    Teenager Luke Littler defeats Andrew Gilding 3-1 to reach the third round of the World Darts Championship

    Teenager Luke Littler defeats Andrew Gilding 3-1 to reach the third round of the World Darts Championship

    Luke Littler was flattered to hear people are comparing him to Michael van Gerwen after he booked a place in the third round of the World Darts Championship.

    Littler held off a mid-match charge from the experienced Andrew Gilding to knock out the 20th seed with a 3-1 win on Thursday night.

    The 16-year-old won his first match at the Alexandra Palace on Wednesday and his natural throwing style has got the darting world talking.

    Ahead of the World Championship, he became the first two-time Junior Darts Corporation world champion and is already being compared to the sport’s greatest ever players including Phil Taylor and Van Gerwen.

    Sky Sports Darts‘ Wayne Mardle says Littler is “probably the most naturally gifted player I have ever seen in my life”.

    Littler plans to celebrate his sensational win over Andrew Gilding with another kebab!

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    Littler plans to celebrate his sensational win over Andrew Gilding with another kebab!

    Littler plans to celebrate his sensational win over Andrew Gilding with another kebab!

    “People do compare me to Michael and see what he’s done and I’ve done. We’ve both done a lot at 16 years of age,” said Littler.

    “I’m breaking records and it’s good to know people are talking about me and comparing me to my idols.”

    Littler averaged 106.12 on his World Championship debut as he beat Christian Kist 3-0 and will play Matt Campbell in the next round after the Canadian stunned James Wade.

    Littler was born in Runcorn, Cheshire, on January 21, 2007 and began playing darts aged nine.

    He won the England Youth Grand Prix in 2019 and began to rack up tournament wins.

    He became England Youth Open champion in 2021 and won his first senior title at the Irish Open later that year.

    In 2022 he won the Welsh Open and this year notched further senior titles at the Isle of Man Classic, Gibraltar Open, British Open and British Classic.

    The 16-year-old is a back-to-back JDC World Champion and reigning World Youth Champion. He doesn’t turn 17 until January 21.

    The winner of that match could play Raymond van Barneveld, who gets his campaign under way on Friday night live on Sky Sports Darts, in the last 16.

    “I’m glad I’m coming back after Christmas. As soon as he beat Wade, my eyes lit up but I knew I had to get past Christian then Andrew and I’m coming back to face Matt. I’ll take it game by game and just play who’s up against me.

    “Matt beat Wade, a multiple major winner, and what he’s done so far is good for Canadian darts but it’s me or him now.”

    Littler on ‘unbelievable’ crowd chanting

    Littler first picked up a set of darts at 18 months old and had the Alexandra Palace crowd singing “you’re going to school in the morning” during both of his wins.

    They also sang “there’s only one Luke Littler”, a chant which Phil Taylor was associated with during his career.

    Littler celebrated wildly after taking a two-set lead against Andrew Gilding in the World Darts Championship

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    Littler celebrated wildly after taking a two-set lead against Andrew Gilding in the World Darts Championship

    Littler celebrated wildly after taking a two-set lead against Andrew Gilding in the World Darts Championship

    “It was unbelievable, especially when you are going for a double. Throughout the game they were chanting for me and chanting over different chants. You’ve just got to somehow get in the zone when they are all chanting,” said Littler.

    He added: “I follow my own Instagram and have gone from 4,000 to 11,000 followers. I’ve had loads of rugby lads, local ones and other teams, follow me and footballers from Ipswich and United U20s. It’s just unbelievable that so many people know about me.”

    Part: Littler can handle different situations

    Three-time world champion John Part on Littler’s performance against Gilding:

    “We learnt he can handle different sorts of situations. I think he did well.

    “Andrew was the better average early going, but somehow he managed to steal set one, set two of course.

    “Set four saw Luke behind at times but Andrew couldn’t get the darts needed to force a tie breaker.”

    Watch the World Darts Championship all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. NOW Sports Month Membership: £21 a month for 6 months

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  • Anthony Joshua in no mood for talking with bizarre interview

    Anthony Joshua in no mood for talking with bizarre interview

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    Anthony Joshua kept his interview as short as possible as he is fully focused making his arrival in Riyadh, ahead of facing Otto Wallin

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  • I did it to be famous! | Tottenham mascot Ralph explains pre-match antics

    I did it to be famous! | Tottenham mascot Ralph explains pre-match antics

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    Young Tottenham mascot Ralph explains his lively pre-match warm-up against Newcastle which went viral.

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  • Birmingham 2-3 Leicester | Championship highlights

    Birmingham 2-3 Leicester | Championship highlights

    Highlights of the Sky Bet Championship match between Birmingham and Leicester.

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  • World Darts Championship: Fallon Sherrock suffers opening round defeat as Luke Humphries cruises through

    World Darts Championship: Fallon Sherrock suffers opening round defeat as Luke Humphries cruises through

    Fallon Sherrock makes costly error in defeat as Luke Humphries surges through in style; the World Darts Championship runs all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – we’re back on Monday at 7pm, live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 18/12/23 12:06am

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    A look back at some of the best action from Night Three of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    A look back at some of the best action from Night Three of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    Fallon Sherrock suffered a gut-wrenching opening round defeat at the World Darts Championship as red-hot Luke Humphries looked cool as a cucumber as he progressed in style on the Alexandra Palace stage.

    Sherrock’s opponent Jermaine Wattimena won nine out of the last 12 legs to send ‘The Queen of the Palace’ crashing out in the first round.

    Humphries, who has been on an incredible run of form which has seen him win three televised titles in two months at the World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and Players Championship Finals, defeated Lee Evans in straight sets.

    World Darts Championship: Sunday Evening Results

    Dylan Slevin 1-3 Florian Hempel (R1)
    Niels Zonneveld 3-1 Darren Webster (R1)
    Jermaine Wattimena 3-1 Fallon Sherrock (R1)
    Luke Humphries 3-0 Lee Evans (R2)

    Sherrock was delighted after winning the first set against Wattimena

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    Sherrock was delighted after winning the first set against Wattimena

    Sherrock was delighted after winning the first set against Wattimena

    Sherrock made a dream start by edging the opening set in a deciding leg with a cool 50 finish in two darts having levelled up the set at 2-2 with an 80 checkout on tops.

    The Dutchman recovered well to seal the second set 3-1 and restore parity much to the annoyance of Sherrock, who missed two darts at tops which would have sent it into a deciding leg.

    It was agony for Sherrock who made a costly error at a crucial moment of her clash against Wattimena

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    It was agony for Sherrock who made a costly error at a crucial moment of her clash against Wattimena

    It was agony for Sherrock who made a costly error at a crucial moment of her clash against Wattimena

    Wattimena soon silenced the rowdy Ally Pally crowd when he blasted his way through the third set without reply to move ahead.

    Sherrock’s hopes were ended when she bust when aiming for double 8 with Wattimena sinking a magnificent 110 checkout to level the fourth set at 2-2. He sank double 5 in the deciding leg to claim victory.

    “Obviously, I’m gutted with the result,” said Sherrock. “I had spells when I played well tonight but I missed chances at key moments and they cost me.

    “Full credit to Jermaine, he was the better player on the night and he punished me when I missed chances.

    “The Ally Pally stage is a special place for me and I will be back to hopefully make more positive memories here in the future.”

    Wattimena ended Sherrock's hopes when he nailed double 5 to claim a fine win

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    Wattimena ended Sherrock’s hopes when he nailed double 5 to claim a fine win

    Wattimena ended Sherrock’s hopes when he nailed double 5 to claim a fine win

    Three-time quarter-finalist Humphries bossed the opening set of his match against Lee Evans, who hit back with the first 170 checkout of the tournament to narrow the gap in set two before the tournament favourite won the deciding leg to stretch his advantage.

    Evans pinned a whopping 116 finish to take a 2-0 lead in the third set but he was punished for a total of 19 missed doubles with ‘Cool Hand Luke’ making it through thanks to a neat 70 checkout on double 16.

    Humphries admitted he wasn't at his best during his win over Evans

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    Humphries admitted he wasn’t at his best during his win over Evans

    Humphries admitted he wasn’t at his best during his win over Evans

    “I was not at my best today, the most important thing for me is it felt good,” said the 28-year-old Newbury thrower. “I said in my previous interviews, just get through the first game, it’s always the toughest.

    “There will be nothing in that game where I look back and say I’m disappointed in myself because I won the game 3-0 and that’s what I wanted.

    “The next game will be tough but I feel I will be a lot lot better than that.

    “It’s hard not to get frustrated but this is darts. You can’t always be fantastic and that’s the way it is.”

    Evans reeled in 'The Big Fish' during his second round match against Humphries

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    Evans reeled in ‘The Big Fish’ during his second round match against Humphries

    Evans reeled in ‘The Big Fish’ during his second round match against Humphries

    Dutchman Niels Zonneveld halted ‘The Demolition man’ Darren Webster’s revival to land his very first victory on the World Championship stage.

    After easing through the opening two sets, Norfolk ace Webster bounced back by edging the third set in a decider to keep his hopes alive despite 16 missed darts at doubles and an 84 average.

    Niels Zonneveld eventually got over the line against Darren Webster, despite EIGHT missed match darts

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    Niels Zonneveld eventually got over the line against Darren Webster, despite EIGHT missed match darts

    Niels Zonneveld eventually got over the line against Darren Webster, despite EIGHT missed match darts

    However, ‘Triple Z’, who reached the quarter-finals of the 2021 World Series of Darts, booked his spot in the second round against former European Champion Ross Smith thanks to his ninth match dart.

    In the opening match of the night, Florian Hempel recovered from a set down to defeat Ireland’s Dylan Slevin 3-1 with five 180s along the way.

    Young Irishman Slevin piled in a 167 but former handball star Hempel showed all his experience to make a winning start to his campaign.

    Dylan Slevin hit this sensational 167 checkout during his first round defeat at the Worlds

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    Dylan Slevin hit this sensational 167 checkout during his first round defeat at the Worlds

    Dylan Slevin hit this sensational 167 checkout during his first round defeat at the Worlds

    The German will now renew his rivalry with Dimitri Van den Bergh in a fascinating second round tie on Friday, two years after shocking the Belgian.

    World Darts Championship: Sunday Afternoon Results

    Ricky Evans 3-0 Simon Adams (R1)
    Jim Williams 3-0 Norman Madhoo (R1)
    Matt Campbell 3-2 Lourence Ilagan (R1)
    Joe Cullen 3-0 Darren Penhall (R2)

    ‘The Rockstar’ lays down marker in afternoon session

    Joe Cullen was happy with his victory over Darren Penhall

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    Joe Cullen was happy with his victory over Darren Penhall

    Joe Cullen was happy with his victory over Darren Penhall

    Joe Cullen raced into the third round after easing to a straight-sets victory over Darren Penhall on Sunday afternoon.

    Cullen smashed in this 160 checkout against Penhall

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    Cullen smashed in this 160 checkout against Penhall

    Cullen smashed in this 160 checkout against Penhall

    Cullen fired a 93.41 average and posted six maximums during a comfortable 3-0 win over Penhall, with a 160 checkout also helping set up a last-32 meeting with Ryan Searle, Ian White or Tomoya Goto.

    'Rapid' Ricky Evans summons the spirit of Christmas for his walk-on against Simon Adams

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    ‘Rapid’ Ricky Evans summons the spirit of Christmas for his walk-on against Simon Adams

    ‘Rapid’ Ricky Evans summons the spirit of Christmas for his walk-on against Simon Adams

    Ricky Evans brushed aside Simon Adams in straight sets earlier in the session to book a second-round clash with Nathan Aspinall, while Wales’ Jim Williams didn’t drop a leg on his way to defeating qualifier Norman Madhoo by the same scoreline.

    The contest of the session came when ‘Ginja Ninja’ Matt Campbell battled back from squandering five match darts in the third set and a two-set lead to defeat Lourence Ilagan in a final-set decider.

    Matt Campbell missed the chance to finish the match before Lourence Ilagan hits tops-tops to win the set

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    Matt Campbell missed the chance to finish the match before Lourence Ilagan hits tops-tops to win the set

    Matt Campbell missed the chance to finish the match before Lourence Ilagan hits tops-tops to win the set

    Live World Darts Championship

    December 18, 2023, 7:00pm

    Live on

    What’s happening on Monday at the World Darts Championship?

    Gerwyn Price will be aiming to land a second World title at Ally Pally

    Gerwyn Price will be aiming to land a second World title at Ally Pally

    Welshman Gerwyn Price begins his bid to lift the Sid Waddell Trophy for a second time on Monday.

    The night will also see World Youth Championship finalist Gian van Veen make his World Championship debut.

    World Darts Championship: Monday Fixtures

    Mario Vandenbogaerde vs Thibault Tricole (R1)
    Gian van Veen vs Man Lok Leung (R1)
    Martin Lukeman vs Haupai Puha (R1)
    Gerwyn Price vs Connor Scutt (R2)

    The sport’s biggest event sees 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace. You can watch all the action live on our dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel.

    Watch the World Darts Championship all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. NOW Sports Month Membership: £21 a month for 6 months

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  • Trent Alexander-Arnold fires low effort just wide

    Trent Alexander-Arnold fires low effort just wide

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    Trent Alexander-Arnold fires a low effort just wide as Liverpool push for an opening goal against Manchester United.

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  • World Darts Championship: Gary Anderson begins quest for third title with win over Simon Whitlock

    World Darts Championship: Gary Anderson begins quest for third title with win over Simon Whitlock

    Gary Anderson sinks 112 and 116 checkouts as ‘The Flying Scotsman’ demolishes Simon Whitlock for opening win; the World Darts Championship runs all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – we’re back on Sunday afternoon at 12.30pm, live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 17/12/23 1:31am

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    A look back at some of the best action from Night Two of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    A look back at some of the best action from Night Two of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    Gary Anderson was back on the Alexandra Palace stage and in relentless form as the 52-year-old crushed Simon Whitlock to cruise through at the World Darts Championship on Saturday.

    The two-time World Champion may currently be ranked 21 in the world but he has statistically played better than anyone on the PDC circuit this year.

    World Darts Championship: Saturday Evening Results

    Jamie Hughes 3-1 David Cameron (R1)
    Keane Barry 3-1 Reynaldo Rivera (R1)
    Scott Williams 3-1 Haruki Muramatsu (R1)
    Gary Anderson 3-0 Simon Whitlock (R2)

    The legendary Scot, who turns 53 on December 22, will enjoy his Christmas at home after racing through the opening set in 11, 14 and 18 darts with an average close to 105.

    Anderson, watched on by tennis star Jamie Murray, then defied a 106 checkout from the Aussie to clinch set two 3-1 and double his lead with three 180s to his name.

    Anderson defeated Whitlock in the second round with this spectacular 116 checkout

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    Anderson defeated Whitlock in the second round with this spectacular 116 checkout

    Anderson defeated Whitlock in the second round with this spectacular 116 checkout

    He soon wrapped up a 3-0 with a classy 116 finish to end the contest with a neat 98.3 average and five 180s.

    “The more I play, the more I get used to it, so fingers crossed. But I still want to be 35 again,” Anderson told Sky Sports.

    The flashy Scott Williams left his form on the Tour behind him as he rolled his way past Japan’s former World Cup of Darts semi-finalist Haruki Muramatsu to reach the next round.

    Williams attempted a no-look 180, then followed it up with a 120 checkout in his first leg

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    Williams attempted a no-look 180, then followed it up with a 120 checkout in his first leg

    Williams attempted a no-look 180, then followed it up with a 120 checkout in his first leg

    ‘Shaggy’ opening the match with a 120 checkout and even attempted a blind 180 on his way to claiming an edgy set but he swept his way through the second without reply.

    Muramatsu claimed the third set to halve the deficit, but Williams sealed the deal when he nailed a show-stopping 127 on the bullseye to set up a clash against Danny Noppert on Thursday.

    Williams rounded off his win over Muramatsu this sensational 127 on the bull

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    Williams rounded off his win over Muramatsu this sensational 127 on the bull

    Williams rounded off his win over Muramatsu this sensational 127 on the bull

    Jamie Hughes finally tasted success at Ally Pally at the fifth time of asking to reach the second round with a 3-1 victory against David Cameron.

    The Tipton ace known as ‘Yozza’ sealed the victory on double eight before showing plenty of emotion on the big stage as he set up a meeting with Krzysztof Ratajski of Poland.

    Jamie Hughes let out all his emotions after his first ever victory  on the Ally Pally stage

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    Jamie Hughes let out all his emotions after his first ever victory on the Ally Pally stage

    Jamie Hughes let out all his emotions after his first ever victory on the Ally Pally stage

    Keane Barry missed a total of 26 darts at a double, while his Filipino opponent Reynaldo Rivera failed with 22 attempts, but it was the Irishman who pinned a Shanghai 120 checkout on his way to a slow-burner of a win and a clash against three-time champion Michael van Gerwen on Tuesday evening.

    Chizzy makes winning start on Saturday afternoon

    Dave Chisnall has struggled for form on the televised stage in 2023, but has picked up three European Tour titles as well as winning two Players Championship events

    Dave Chisnall has struggled for form on the televised stage in 2023, but has picked up three European Tour titles as well as winning two Players Championship events

    World Darts Championship: Saturday Afternoon Results

    Lee Evans 3-0 Sandro Eric Sosing (R1)
    Connor Scutt 3-0 Krzysztof Kciuk (R1)
    Jules van Dongen 1-3 Darren Penhall (R1)
    Dave Chisnall 3-1 Cameron Menzies (R2)

    Dave Chisnall broke the heart of an emotional Cameron Menzies, who missed five darts to force a deciding set with the St Helens thrower eventually coming through a tricky second-round tie 3-1.

    Former Lakeside Championship semi-finalist Menzies spent Friday morning plumbing before taking to the biggest stage in world darts to defeat Rusty-Jake Rodriguez in the opening round.

    Cameron Menzies couldn't hide his emotion after losing to Dave Chisnall and exiting the World Darts Championship in the second round

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    Cameron Menzies couldn’t hide his emotion after losing to Dave Chisnall and exiting the World Darts Championship in the second round

    Cameron Menzies couldn’t hide his emotion after losing to Dave Chisnall and exiting the World Darts Championship in the second round

    And he made a good start but ‘Chizzy’ recovered from a set down to reel off three in a row and complete a fine victory over the Scot with six 180s along the way.

    Earlier, Connor Scutt was the pick of the players involved in the first-round matches, returning a 95.97 average on his way to a 3-0 whitewash victory over Krzysztof Kciuk of Poland.

    Darren Penhall breezes the first two legs of the third set, taking out a 108 and 120 against Jules van Dongen

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    Darren Penhall breezes the first two legs of the third set, taking out a 108 and 120 against Jules van Dongen

    Darren Penhall breezes the first two legs of the third set, taking out a 108 and 120 against Jules van Dongen

    Darren Penhall provided some extravagant moments during his 3-1 victory over Jules van Dongen, taking out three ton-plus finishes, while Lee Evans overcame Sandro Eric Sosing 3-0 to book a second-round meeting with the in-form Luke Humphries.

    Came out of retirement to play on the DPA circuit

    Won 11 events to qualify for Ally Pally

    English-born Australian is nicknamed ‘Smooth Operator’

    Wins on his World Championship debut

    What’s happening on Sunday at the World Darts Championship?

    Fallon Sherrock makes her highly-anticipated return to Ally Pally. Can the 'Queen of the Palace' cause another seismic tungsten shock?

    Fallon Sherrock makes her highly-anticipated return to Ally Pally. Can the ‘Queen of the Palace’ cause another seismic tungsten shock?

    Luke Humphries – who has won three of the sport’s last four TV ranking titles – will headline the action when he takes on Lee Evans.

    World Darts Championship: Sunday Afternoon Fixtures

    Ricky Evans vs Simon Adams (R1)
    Jim Williams vs Norman Madhoo (R1)
    Matt Campbell vs Lourence Ilagan (R1)
    Joe Cullen vs Darren Penhall (R2)

    Former Masters champion Joe Cullen will also feature, while Fallon Sherrock goes head-to-head with quick-fire Dutchman Jermaine Wattimena on her Alexandra Palace return.

    World Darts Championship: Sunday Evening Fixtures

    Dylan Slevin vs Florian Hempel (R1)
    Niels Zonneveld vs Darren Webster (R1)
    Jermaine Wattimena vs Fallon Sherrock (R1)
    Luke Humphries vs Lee Evans (R2)

    The sport’s biggest event sees 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace. You can watch all the action live on our dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel.

    Watch the World Darts Championship all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. NOW Sports Month Membership: £21 a month for 6 months

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  • World Darts Championship: Michael Smith, Simon Whitlock and Cameron Menzies all win on opening night

    World Darts Championship: Michael Smith, Simon Whitlock and Cameron Menzies all win on opening night

    Michael Smith survives opening-round scare to make it through at Ally Pally; the World Darts Championship runs all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – we’re back on Saturday afternoon at 12.30pm, live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 16/12/23 2:24am

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    A look back at some of the best action for the opening night of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    A look back at some of the best action for the opening night of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace

    Reigning champion Michael Smith began his World Darts Championship title defence with victory but only after surviving a huge scare to defeat Dutch debutant Kevin Doets on opening night at Alexandra Palace.

    Smith created global headlines with his sensational triumph in January, producing an incredible nine-darter in a leg dubbed ‘the greatest of all-time’ on his way to a 7-4 success against Michael van Gerwen.

    The world No 1 was facing the prospect of becoming the first defending champion to lose their opening match in the sport’s showpiece event since 2009, before he fought back magnificently to keep his hopes alive.

    World Darts Championship: Friday’s Results

    Kevin Doets 3-0 Stowe Buntz (R1)
    Cameron Menzies 3-0 Rusty-Jake Rodriguez (R1)
    Simon Whitlock 3-2 Paolo Nebrida (R1)
    Michael Smith 3-2 Kevin Doets (R2)

    Michael Smith dug out this huge 142 in the final set to leave his opponent Kevin Doets shaking his head in disbelief

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    Michael Smith dug out this huge 142 in the final set to leave his opponent Kevin Doets shaking his head in disbelief

    Michael Smith dug out this huge 142 in the final set to leave his opponent Kevin Doets shaking his head in disbelief

    Doets, who reached the fifth round of this year’s UK Open after winning his PDC Tour Card for the first time in January 2022, dumped out Grand Slam of Darts quarter-finalist Stowe Buntz in the opening match of the tournament.

    The world No 66 came into the meeting with St Helens star Smith on a high, but it was the reigning champion who made a strong start by sealing the opening set 3-1 with 60 per cent on the doubles.

    The talented Dutchman responded by claiming the second set in a deciding leg against the darts for parity with a 100.3 average after Smith failed to hit tops to move clear of his opponent.

    Smith pinned this superb 150 during his 3-2 victory over the Dutchman

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    Smith pinned this superb 150 during his 3-2 victory over the Dutchman

    Smith pinned this superb 150 during his 3-2 victory over the Dutchman

    Doets, nicknamed ‘Hawk Eye’, continued to find the target and he despite a huge 150 checkout from Smith, he produced winning legs in 12, 14 and 13 darts to move within a set of causing a almighty upset.

    However, Smith wrapped up set four 3-1, including a whopping 121 checkout to send the match all the way.

    Smith landed a majestic 142 checkout under immense pressure to regain the lead in the decider and despite missing five darts at a double, he eventually claimed victory with a neat 67 finish on tops.

    Wayne Mardle heaped praise on Smith after his close opening win at Ally Pally

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    Wayne Mardle heaped praise on Smith after his close opening win at Ally Pally

    Wayne Mardle heaped praise on Smith after his close opening win at Ally Pally

    “It’s one of them, I managed to fall over the line, no nerves, no pressure, I’ll have a good Christmas now,” Smith told Sky Sports.

    Simon Whitlock, the 2010 runner-up, missed five darts before winning a slow-burner of a contest against former PDC Asian Championship finalist Paolo Nebrida to set up a showdown with two-time champion Gary Anderson on Saturday evening.

    Paolo Nebrida found checkouts of 116 and 121 but eventually lost out to Simon Whitlock in a nervy contest

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    Paolo Nebrida found checkouts of 116 and 121 but eventually lost out to Simon Whitlock in a nervy contest

    Paolo Nebrida found checkouts of 116 and 121 but eventually lost out to Simon Whitlock in a nervy contest

    ‘The Wizard’ was forced to dig deep to battle past Nebrida, using all of his experience to avoid a shock exit.

    “I’ve just been messing around with my darts too much. I’ve been like Peter Wright,” Whitlock admitted.

    And on facing Anderson next, he replied: “I’m a big 180 hitter and they weren’t there today, but tomorrow is a different day. Maybe they will turn, maybe I will turn up and me and Gary will have a great game.”

    Whitlock credited his experience for getting him through a razor-thin opening-round contest

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    Whitlock credited his experience for getting him through a razor-thin opening-round contest

    Whitlock credited his experience for getting him through a razor-thin opening-round contest

    Cameron Menzies came through a fiery encounter against Rusty-Jake Rodriguez to reach the second round.

    The Scot, who is the partner of Fallon Sherrock, closed out a 3-0 success over Austria’s Rodriguez with four 180s and 50 per cent on the doubles to move through.

    “I was so nervous today, because I knew that game meant a lot,” revealed Menzies, who prepared for his opening round clash with a plumbing shift this morning.

    “Winning that game meant the world to me, and I think going to work today helped me relax, because it made me realise that darts is a hobby for me.

    “Obviously I would like to be in a situation in the future where I can give up work, because I know in spells I can score as well as the best, but it’s still my finishing that separates the top ten from a player like me.”

    Rusty-Jake Rodriguez threw his darts off the table after going down two sets to Cameron Menzies

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    Rusty-Jake Rodriguez threw his darts off the table after going down two sets to Cameron Menzies

    Rusty-Jake Rodriguez threw his darts off the table after going down two sets to Cameron Menzies

    Live World Darts Championship

    December 16, 2023, 12:30pm

    Live on

    Live World Darts Championship

    December 16, 2023, 7:00pm

    Live on

    What’s happening on Saturday at the World Darts Championship?

    Dave 'Chizzy' Chisnall headlines he action on Saturday afternoon at Alexandra Palace

    Dave ‘Chizzy’ Chisnall headlines he action on Saturday afternoon at Alexandra Palace

    The first double session at this year’s tournament will take place, as two-time world champion Gary Anderson opens his title challenge with a clash against Simon Whitlock.

    World Darts Championship: Saturday Afternoon Fixtures

    Lee Evans vs Sandro Eric Sosing (R1)
    Connor Scutt vs Krzysztof Kciuk (R1)
    Jules van Dongen vs Darren Penhall (R1)
    Dave Chisnall vs Cameron Menzies (R2)

    World Darts Championship: Saturday Evening Fixtures

    Jamie Hughes vs David Cameron (R1)
    Keane Barry vs Reynaldo Rivera (R1)
    Scott Williams vs Haruki Muramatsu (R1)
    Gary Anderson vs Simon Whitlock (R2)

    Dave Chisnall, a 2021 semi-finalist, takes centre stage in the afternoon when he faces Cameron Menzies, while American No 1 Jules van Dongen makes his debut against DPA qualifier Darren Penhall.

    The sport’s biggest event sees 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace. You can watch all the action live on our dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel.

    Watch the World Darts Championship all the way until the final on January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. NOW Sports Month Membership: £21 a month for 6 months

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  • Gary Neville: Tottenham’s Dejan Kulusevski could be £80m-100m player

    Gary Neville: Tottenham’s Dejan Kulusevski could be £80m-100m player

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    Gary Neville says if Dejan Kulusevski continues starring in the number 10 role for Tottenham Hotspur, he could end up being worth between £80 million and £100 million.

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  • Behind the scenes at Alexandra Palace: Welcome to the World Darts Championship 2024

    Behind the scenes at Alexandra Palace: Welcome to the World Darts Championship 2024

    We take a look behind the scenes at what goes into preparing the World Darts Championship at the Alexandra Palace; The World Darts Championship runs from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts

    Last Updated: 15/12/23 4:42pm

    The World Darts Championship will take over the Alexandra Palace until January 3

    The calm before the storm – the final preparations are well under way at Alexandra Palace.

    The seats are all set out, the fan area has beer and food aplenty, and the stage is looking as special as ever in luminous green.

    The long green carpet to the fan area leads you into a mix of games, fun, and charity.

    A chance to play darts against the best, food and drink galore, and most excitingly, your chance to recreate Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke’s iconic commentary from the 2023 final greet you in the space that will soon be packed out by thousands.

    Come 5.30pm, when fans are all set with their pitchers of beer, they can head into the arena which is dominating in its proximity to the stage.

    The rows of tables are all dutifully lined up and the flashing lights are ready to put on a show with the fans up close and personal with the players they have come to watch.

    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

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    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

    Watch how Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pyke reacted to the sensational leg between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in the World Championship final that culminated in a nine-darter for Bully Boy

    The former winners adorn the walls in a constant reminder of how big this tournament is and the walk on area, although shorter in person, is as intimidating as ever – never mind when 1,000s of fans are watching on.

    “Stand up if you love the darts” is the message that is on the walls alongside “it is the most wonderful time of the year” and for most who will visit the Ally Pally over the next six weeks, it is wonderful because of the darting show they will witness.

    We take a look inside the St Helen's darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

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    We take a look inside the St Helen’s darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

    We take a look inside the St Helen’s darts club that produced Michael Smith, Luke Littler and others to see how they inspire young players

    Last year brought the greatest leg of darts ever seen, and now it is time to find out what from this tournament will live on in darting history…

    Watch the World Darts Championship from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports Darts. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

    West Indies 1st innings

    Total

    176 for 7, from 20 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. King
      not out;
      82 runs,
      52 balls,
      8 fours,
      5 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 157.69
    2. Mayers
      c Curran b Woakes;
      17 runs,
      16 balls,
      2 fours,
      1 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 106.25
    3. Pooran (wk)
      c Woakes b Rashid;
      5 runs,
      5 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 100.00
    4. Hope
      b Ahmed;
      1 runs,
      3 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 33.33
    5. Hetmyer
      c Ali b Rashid;
      2 runs,
      5 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 40.00
    6. Powell (c)
      c Brook b Curran;
      50 runs,
      28 balls,
      3 fours,
      5 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 178.57
    7. Russell
      b Mills;
      14 runs,
      10 balls,
      0 fours,
      2 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 140.00
    8. Holder
      c Livingstone b Mills;
      0 runs,
      1 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00

    Yet to bat

    Fall of Wickets

    • Kyle Mayers at 43 for 1, from 5.4 overs
    • Nicholas Pooran at 48 for 2, from 6.3 overs
    • Shai Hope at 51 for 3, from 7.2 overs
    • Shimron Hetmyer at 54 for 4, from 8.2 overs
    • Rovman Powell at 134 for 5, from 15.6 overs
    • Andre Russell at 176 for 6, from 19.5 overs
    • Jason Holder at 176 for 7, from 19.6 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Ali:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      15 runs,
      0 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.
    2. Woakes:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      34 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 8.50.
    3. Curran:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      38 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 19.00.
    4. Rashid:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      11 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.75.
    5. Ahmed:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      47 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 11.75.
    6. Mills:
      4overs,
      0 maidens,
      30 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.

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  • Eddie Jones denies early Japan talks: I don’t feel any guilt about process

    Eddie Jones denies early Japan talks: I don’t feel any guilt about process

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    Eddie Jones says he doesn’t feel guilty at all about his process of joining Japan after it was rumoured he was in talks with the Japanese Rugby Football Union while coaching Australia at the World Cup.

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

    India Women 1st innings

    Total

    29 for 1, from 6.3 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. Mandhana
      b Bell;
      17 runs,
      12 balls,
      3 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 141.67
    2. Verma
      not out;
      7 runs,
      22 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 31.82
    3. Satheesh
      not out;
      4 runs,
      5 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 80.00

    Yet to bat

    • Kaur
    • Rodrigues
    • Sharma
    • Bhatia
    • Rana
    • Vastrakar
    • Renuka Singh Thakur
    • Gayakwad

    Fall of Wickets

    • Smriti Mandhana at 25 for 1, from 5.1 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Cross:
      3.3overs,
      0 maidens,
      9 runs,
      0 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.57.
    2. Bell:
      3overs,
      0 maidens,
      19 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 6.33.

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  • Beau Greaves clinches second WDF World Championship title with win vs Aileen de Graaf at Lakeside

    Beau Greaves clinches second WDF World Championship title with win vs Aileen de Graaf at Lakeside

    England’s Beau Greaves, 19, picks up her second consecutive WDF World Championship title, beating Dutch player Aileen de Graaf 4-1 in the final of a dominant tournament performance and success at Lakeside

    Last Updated: 10/12/23 7:53pm

    Beau Greaves has secured the second WDF World Championship title of her career

    Beau Greaves beat Aileen de Graaf 4-1 to clinch the second WDF World Championship title of her darting career at Lakeside.

    Defending world champion Greaves produced one of the highest averages in the history of the Women’s World Championship as she beat Rhian O’Sullivan 3-0 in the semi-finals on Saturday, with the 19-year-old finishing on a 90.77 average, and it was much of the same from her in the final.

    Greaves’ imperious form continued to take the first set of the final, winning successive legs in 17 and 18 darts to take it 3-1.

    Greaves swept the second set 3-0 to double her lead going into the break, before also winning the third set despite De Graaf breaking Greaves’ throw to get one on the board – the latter instead took it it 3-2 to move within three legs of a second World Championship title.

    De Graaf then won three legs on the spin to take the fourth set – the first Greaves dropped all tournament – and force the final past the second break. Yet, Greaves showed her class to comfortably close out the match 3-0 in the fifth set.

    Greaves’ run to the trophy

    Round 2 – Beau Greaves 2-0 Lorraine Hyde

    Quarter-final – Beau Greaves 2-0 Paula Murphy

    Semi-final – Beau Greaves 3-0 Rhian O’Sullivan

    Final – Beau Greaves 4-1 Aileen de Graaf

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  • LIVE STREAM: Watch England vs South Africa in third match of Vitality Netball International Series

    LIVE STREAM: Watch England vs South Africa in third match of Vitality Netball International Series

    The Vitality Roses welcome South Africa in their first home series since winning a Netball World Cup silver medal this summer; the three-match tournament concludes on Sunday December 10 at 1.45pm, live on Sky Sports Mix and YouTube

    Last Updated: 10/12/23 2:24pm

    Watch England take on South Africa in the third game of their three-match Vitality Netball International Series via our free live stream.

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    LIVE NETBALL! England vs South Africa | Vitality International Series

    LIVE NETBALL! England vs South Africa | Vitality International Series

    The Vitality Roses welcome South Africa in their first home series since winning a Netball World Cup silver medal this summer. The three-match tournament started in Manchester, as England won Game 1 before South Africa sent the series to a decider by winning Game 2.

    Watch the Game 3 deciding clash by clicking play on the video at the top of this page – live coverage gets under way from 1.45pm.

    You can watch England take on South Africa in their home series between December 5-10, live on Sky Sports. Stream the netball and more with NOW.

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  • (Sky Sports)

    (Sky Sports)

    India Women 1st innings

    Total

    33 for 4, from 6 overs.

    Batting

    Runs
    Balls
    4s
    6s
    SR

    1. Verma
      lbw b Dean;
      0 runs,
      2 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00
    2. Mandhana
      lbw b Dean;
      10 runs,
      9 balls,
      2 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 111.11
    3. Rodrigues
      not out;
      9 runs,
      12 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 75.00
    4. Kaur (c)
      lbw b Sciver-Brunt;
      9 runs,
      7 balls,
      2 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 128.57
    5. Sharma
      c Jones b Bell;
      0 runs,
      2 balls,
      0 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 0.00
    6. Ghosh (wk)
      not out;
      4 runs,
      4 balls,
      1 fours,
      0 sixes,
      and a strike rate of 100.00

    Yet to bat

    • Vastrakar
    • Patil
    • Sadhu
    • Renuka Singh Thakur
    • Ishaque

    Fall of Wickets

    • Shafali Verma at 0 for 1, from 0.2 overs
    • Smriti Mandhana at 17 for 2, from 3.2 overs
    • Harmanpreet Kaur at 28 for 3, from 4.5 overs
    • Deepti Sharma at 29 for 4, from 5.2 overs

    Bowling

    Overs
    Maidens
    Runs
    Wickets
    Econ

    1. Dean:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      4 runs,
      2 wickets,
      and an economy of 2.00.
    2. Bell:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      14 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.00.
    3. Sciver-Brunt:
      2overs,
      0 maidens,
      15 runs,
      1 wickets,
      and an economy of 7.50.

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  • The Verdict: ‘Wasteful’ Tottenham drop further down the table

    The Verdict: ‘Wasteful’ Tottenham drop further down the table

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    Michael Bridge and Ben Grounds react to West Ham’s second-half comeback as a ‘wasteful’ Tottenham squanders another lead and drop further down the table.

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  • Aberdeen 0-1 Kilmarnock | Scottish Premiership highlights

    Aberdeen 0-1 Kilmarnock | Scottish Premiership highlights

    Highlights from the Scottish Premiership match between Aberdeen and Kilmarnock.

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  • The Verdict: No Nations League finals or Olympics will help England for Euros

    The Verdict: No Nations League finals or Olympics will help England for Euros

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    The Telegraph’s Tom Garry joins Gail Davis to discuss England’s failure to qualify for the Nations League finals and Olympic Games.

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  • Mosconi Cup 2023: Jayson Shaw ready to give as good as he gets for Team Europe’s defence against Team USA

    Mosconi Cup 2023: Jayson Shaw ready to give as good as he gets for Team Europe’s defence against Team USA

    Marc Bazeley

    @MarcBazeley

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw is anticipating another rowdy atmosphere when he and his team-mates take on America’s best nine-ball players in defence of the Mosconi Cup; Watch the 2023 Mosconi Cup live on Sky Sports Arena from Wednesday, December 6 (6.30pm)

    Last Updated: 04/12/23 5:38pm

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw is ready for another rowdy Mosconi Cup clash with Team USA

    In the three-decade history of the Mosconi Cup, there is arguably no one who has got under the skin of their opponents quite like Earl Strickland.

    The American pool icon’s confrontations with opposing players and referees, and outbursts at the crowd, made him something of a pantomime villain for Team Europe supporters too. So, it would perhaps be wise not to try to provoke the master of the mind games.

    That is, of course, unless you happen to be Jayson Shaw. Because, last year, the Scottish cueist showed no compunction about mimicking Strickland in putting his ear to the crowd when he beat the three-time nine-ball world champion on enemy turf in Las Vegas last year.

    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

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    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

    Jayson Shaw mimicked his opponent Earl Strickland as Team Europe had the better of Day 2 of the 2022 Mosconi Cup against the USA.

    This year’s playing vice-captain for Europe embraces that side of the annual clash with the best nine-ball players the USA has to offer and is going to be doing his best to get the home fans creating a raucous atmosphere at Alexandra Palace.

    “Vegas last year was a little bit rowdy with their fans and I think their fans have started picking up that they need to be more like the European fans,” Shaw told Sky Sports News ahead of the 2023 Mosconi Cup, which starts on Wednesday, December 6 live on Sky Sports.

    “This year, I’m going to make sure the fans are really on it. I get a lot of stick, but I give a lot too.

    “You’ve got to take the good with the bad and there’s always a lot of rivalry in the team, but now you’ve got a little bit more.”

    Strickland will not be adding to his 15 appearances for Team USA at this year’s tournament, but Shaw already has his eye on winding up another member of the opposition in former Team Europe player Fedor Gorst.

    The Russia-born 2019 world nine-ball champion represented Europe in the Covid-affected 2020 tournament behind closed doors in Coventry as the hosts triumphed 11-3. However, gaining permanent residency in the USA means Gorst has been able to switch allegiance.

    That means the player who was at one point ranked No 2 in Europe’s Race to the Mosconi Cup standings will be lining up for Jeremy Jones’ team as they seek to regain the trophy they last held in 2019, and Shaw has already been engaging in some good-natured ribbing of Gorst.

    “Terrible,” Shaw said jokingly of his reaction to Gorst switching sides, adding: “Obviously, it’s his decision, right?

    This year, I’m going to make sure the fans are really on it. I get a lot of stick, but I give a lot too.

    Team Europe vice-captain Jayson Shaw

    “It’s up to him to do what he wants to do, but I don’t think I could ever do that, and I think there are a few other players who couldn’t do that.

    “He’s going to pay the price for doing that and he’s going to get a lot of heat for that this week. I’ve already been giving him a lot of stick for that, but he takes it well and he’s a good person.

    “He’s a great player and I’m sure he’s going to play well, but I’m going to try to make him play not so well.”

    As for his form on the table, Shaw heads into the Mosconi Cup ranked fifth in the World Nineball Tour rankings and having claimed his first title on the tour with a thrilling 13-12 win over Europe team-mate Albin Ouschan in October’s Hanoi Open final.

    It could hardly have been better preparation for the upcoming clash with the Americans either, with the two-time Mosconi Cup Most Valuable Player feeling the tournament in the Vietnamese capital city was as close as a singles tournament gets to those matches.

    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

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    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

    Jayson Shaw won the inaugural Hanoi Open Pool Championship after defeating Albin Ouschan, sparking wild celebrations on top of the pool table!

    “When I saw the venue and the crowd it reminded me of the Mosconi Cup and when I went out there it felt like I was playing Mosconi Cup matches,” Shaw said. “It was great preparation for this week.

    “At the start of the year, a lot of things weren’t really going for me, but I’ve just tried to stay positive, keep working on my game, working on myself, and I feel like I’m in a good position now.

    “I’m playing well, I feel good in myself and I’m looking forward to it.”

    Shaw has been playing a big part in Europe’s preparations for their defence of the Mosconi Cup too, setting up a pre-tournament camp at his sister’s pool hall in Scotland where they got plenty of match practice as well as some team bonding in.

    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

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    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

    Europe made no mistake on the final day of the 2022 Mosconi Cup as they took home the trophy once again.

    That included playing a challenge match against a team of five local nine-ball players mimicking the Mosconi Cup format, in which Europe triumphed 11-4, and the 33-year-old could hardly be happier with how Ralph Eckert’s squad are shaping up ahead of the event.

    “I really feel our team have that good bond,” Shaw said. “We don’t have to really take in a rookie and try to help them out, everybody has been there.

    “We’ve all won big tournaments all year and been in that position of playing in big finals. I feel like we’re really there and ready to play.”

    Watch every ball of the Mosconi Cup live on Sky Sports Arena from 6.30pm on Wednesday, December 6 to Saturday, December 9. You can also stream the 2023 Mosconi Cup and more of the best sport without a contract with NOW.

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