Are we moving towards a Littler vs Humphries clash at Ally Pally?
Are we on the verge of witnessing a Luke Littler vs Luke Humphries dream match at the World Darts Championship? And why are so many seeded players being eliminated at Ally Pally? Expectations leading up to the tournament suggested it would culminate in a showdown between the Lukes, as both continue to excel in the sport. The initial rounds thus far have given no indication otherwise.
Littler has glided through matches against Darius Labanauskas and David Davies, not having to exert much effort. Similarly, Humphries has showcased his skill in defeating Ted Evetts and Paul Lim. Though tougher challenges await, both players possess the potential for improvement, making it a bold choice to wager on anyone other than Littler or Humphries lifting the Sid Waddell Trophy on January 3.
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Seeds eliminated before R3 at the World Championship
6. Danny Noppert – R27. James Wade – R28. Chris Dobey – R29. Gerwyn Price – R212. Ross Smith – R118. Mike De Decker – R121. Dave Chisnall – R222. Daryl Gurney – R223. Dimitri Van den Bergh – R124. Ryan Joyce – R226. Cameron Menzies – R127. Ritchie Edhouse – R128. Michael Smith – R229. Dirk van Duijvenbode – R230. Peter Wright – R231. Wessel Nijman – R232. Joe Cullen – R2
The revised tournament structure, wherein seeded players do not automatically advance to round two, resulted in many prominent names exiting before Christmas. Notable former champions Gerwyn Price, Peter Wright, and Michael Smith all fell in the second round, with sixth seed Danny Noppert being the highest-ranked player eliminated. Also departing in the second round were seventh-seeded Chris Dobey and eighth-seeded James Wade, while the highest seed to exit at the first round was 12th seed Ross Smith. Michael van Gerwen remains a leading force and title contender, offering his perspective on the unprecedented number of seeded players being eliminated. The Dutch star remarked: “I always say the world championships is a different animal. You have to prepare yourself in a really good way to make sure you’re going to do some damage here.”
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Highlights of the clash between Humphries and Paul Lim
Mardle: Don’t dismiss MVG
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Michael van Gerwen showcased his strength as he advanced to the third round of the championship against William O’Connor
Sky Sports’ Wayne Mardle hasn’t dismissed the prospects of back-to-back winner Anderson and three-time champion Van Gerwen, indicating it would be “short-sighted” to overlook the potential for additional surprises in a tournament that has seen 17 seeds toppled.
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Van Gerwen completed a checkout of 121 and 127 in consecutive legs against William O’Connor at Ally Pally
In an episode of ‘Behind The Oche’, the four-time world championship semi-finalist stated: “I don’t believe it’s solely Luke Humphries’ responsibility to thwart Luke Littler. It would be very short-sighted for anyone to claim ‘no, that can’t happen’ after witnessing what has unfolded in this World Championship.” We’ve seen Wesley Plaisier eliminate Gerwyn Price and, in a way, Gabriel Clemens take down Wessel Nijman. Certain things are undeniably difficult to achieve, such as playing poorly and defeating Gary Anderson. To overcome Michael van Gerwen, you must perform at an elite level on stage.” If they are defeated, it will require an extraordinary showcase to surpass them. Michael van Gerwen reaches finals here even when he’s not at his peak form, so I wouldn’t count him out.”
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Littler competes against his esteemed rival Humphries in an exciting beat-the-clock challenge!
World Darts Championship: Third-round drawTop HalfLuke Littler vs Mensur SuljovicDamon Heta vs Rob CrossAndrew Gilding vs Luke WoodhouseWesley Plaisier vs Krzysztof RatajskiStephen Bunting vs James HurrellMartin Schindler vs Ryan SearleJonny Clayton vs Niels ZonneveldAndreas Harrysson vs Ricardo Pietreczko
A majority of R3 participants are unseeded players, marking the highest occurrence since the introduction of 32 seeds
17: 2026 14: 202513: 2019, 2018, 200612: 2024, 200911: 2012, 200710: 20169: 2015, 2010, 20088: 2022, 20207: 2014, 20116: 2021, 20175: 2013 3: 2023
Bottom HalfLuke Humphries vs Gabriel ClemensNathan Apsinall vs Kevin DoetsRicky Evans vs Charlie ManbyGian van Veen vs Madars RazmaMichael van Gerwen vs Arno MerkGary Anderson vs Jermaine WattimenaJustin Hood vs Ryan MeikleJosh Rock vs Callan Rydz
World Championship second round highest averages
Gian van Veen 108.28Gary Anderson 105.41Justin Hood 103.01Danny Noppert 102.27Josh Rock 101.33Michael van Gerwen 100.20Andrew Gilding 99.01Ryan Searle 98.67
Favorites, veterans, and emerging talents
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Watch every 170 finish made at the world championship thus far…
Three-time world champion John Part is thrilled to see a combination of strong favorites, seasoned players, and outstanding performances from rising stars. The Canadian noted: “Numerous players recognize their shot as a genuine opportunity, rather than something to intimidate them. It seems almost like a rally around the underdogs. When one succeeds, another finds inspiration… like dominoes falling! However, we’ve also observed remarkable comebacks. Some players managed to survive while others didn’t, but as we move forward, we expect a fantastic tournament. The format might seem lengthy, but it can also be quite brief. I think many favorites will feel a sense of relief as the competition intensifies post-Christmas, providing more security.”
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Highlights of the encounter between Littler and David Davies from Wales
Part believes Littler has what it takes to defend his title, although he acknowledges that there are players remaining in the tournament who could challenge ‘The Nuke.’ “Littler isn’t invincible, but he can maximize his skills and strategically position himself well; when faced with challenges, he knows how to navigate through them. He can maintain focus amidst adversity, but that’s the highest level of darts. At times, one becomes vulnerable to situations spiraling beyond control, making it essential to stay professional and execute your tasks.” Who will claim the Paddy Power World Darts Championship? Catch every match live until January 3 on Sky Sports’ specialized darts channel (Sky channel 407 starting December 10). Stream darts and other top sports with NOW.
Published: 2025-12-24 15:05:00
source: www.skysports.com
