Two‑time World Cup champion Jonny Clayton returns to the tournament with newcomer Nick Kenny after Gerwyn Price withdrew for the second time in three years. The pair inherit the No 7 seeds and immediately set the tone, beating Lithuania 4‑1 in Group C. Clayton stressed the honour of wearing the Welsh shirt, vowing a third title. Matches run June 11‑14 on Sky Sports.

In their opening match Clayton praised Kenny’s passion, recalling a BDO partnership that forged tight chemistry. Kenny, on debut, delivered a crucial 82‑checkout and praised Clayton’s finishing as ‘class’. Both acknowledged the disappointment of Price’s absence but insisted Wales can still compete despite being underestimated. He highlighted the 82 checkout as a turning point and noted the pride of Welsh fans hoping for redemption.

The 4‑1 win places Wales atop Group C and gives them momentum heading into the knockout stage, where defending champions Northern Ireland await. A strong showing could force a reshuffle of the tournament hierarchy and prove the new pairing a serious threat to the established order. Welsh supporters will be watching closely, eager for a repeat of 2022 and 2023 victories.