Former world champion Michael Smith says he plans on "playing 100 per cent of the tournaments" in 2027 after an opening win at the Swiss Darts Trophy. The 2023 world champion fought back from 3-1 down to beat Rob Owen, hitting 50 per cent of his doubles in just his fourth European Tour event of the season. Smith is chasing the final spots in the European Championship race and will meet Jermaine Wattimena for a place in Sunday's action.
Rob Cross was Friday's standout performer for the second event in a row, averaging 105.95 in his 6-3 success against Mario Vandenbogaerde. Bradley Brooks also produced an excellent display, averaging over a ton in a 6-4 victory over Niels Zonneveld, with both players hitting 13 maximums. Brooks will face Chris Dobey for a place in the final day at St Jakobshalle.
Karel Sedlacek remains in the European Championship race after defeating Sebastian Bialecki 6-4, including a brilliant 86 checkout on the bull. Stefan Bellmont created history as the third Swiss player to win at the tournament, beating Andrew Gilding 6-3 on home soil. Maik Kuivenhoven ended a near five-year losing streak by defeating compatriot Raymond van Barneveld 6-3.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing