World Matchplay tips: Dirk van Duijvenbode to cruise, Damon Heta to break Josh Rock losing run
- Seb Sternik
- 15 July 2023
Planet Sport looks at the betting ahead of the first four games on Day Two of the World Matchplay.
The biggest darting extravaganza away from the world championships is underway in Blackpool.
Here, we run through the early action on what is shaping up to be an intriguing Sunday afternoon session.
Danny Noppert vs Martin Schindler
Danny Noppert enjoyed a run to the semi-final during last year's World Matchplay.
The Dutchman will be looking to replicate - if not better - that effort as he begins his campaign against Martin Schindler.
Noppert has endured some mixed results in recent weeks, though the world number eight is well backed to progress by the bookmakers.
Martin Schindler has endured a string of early exits at recent ProTour and European Tour events which certainly doesn't bode well for his chances.
Noppert has won the last two head-to-heads and we're backing him to make it a hat-trick.
Tip: Danny Noppert
Dirk van Duijvenbode vs Kim Huybrechts
Fans at the Winter Gardens will be treated to a Benelux derby when Dirk van Duijvenbode and Kim Huybrechts square off in the opening round.
The Dutchman has been on the up for a number of years and his recent performances on the Tour have been solid - including a recent run to a European Darts Matchplay final.
Huybrechts, on the other hand, has only won one of his last seven matches.
With form like that, Van Duijvenbode is the only man to back in this contest.
Tip: Dirk van Duijvenbode
Damon Heta vs Josh Rock
Damon Heta arrived at the Winter Gardens having just won the Players Championship 16 event.
The Aussie has lost just two of his last 19 matches and, on paper, he is the favourite.
One thing Heta will have to overcome is his recent losing run against Josh Rock.
The Englishman has won three straight matches against the world number 13 - all of those coming in late 2022.
Our recommendation is to back form over history. With that in mind, Heta is our pick.
Tip: Damon Heta
James Wade vs Chris Dobey
James Wade has mixed memories of the Winter Gardens stage. While the Englishman is a one-time champion, he could've had four more if not for the indomitable Phil Taylor.
Nevertheless, The Machine kicks off his latest campaign at the World Matchplay against Chris Dobey.
Wade may not display great scoring power at the moment, but he is the ultimate punisher when it comes to the doubles.
Expect Dobey to stay within reach of the former champ, but our tip is to back Wade to progress.
Tip: James Wade
