Flying the Aussie flag against best in the world
AUSTRALIA’S finest will take on the best darts players in the world when the World Series of Darts returns to Melbourne in August.
Simon Whitlock, Kyle Anderson and rising star Corey Cadby will lead the Australian assault on some of the best players on the Professional Darts Corporation tour at Hisense Arena.
They will be joined by qualifiers from across the country and New Zealand as the boys from Down Under look to build on the success of Anderson, who is the reigning Auckland Masters champion.
World No.1 Michael van Gerwen heads the all-star cast, which also includes the three other players in the top four – world champion Rob Cross, two-time world champion Gary Anderson and world No.2 Peter Wright. Michael Smith, who was rrunner-up to van GGerwen in this yyear’s Premier LLeague will also bbe in Melbourne, wwith five-time cchampion of the world Raymond van Barneveld, completing the PDC contingent.
They will be joined by Cadby, the top two players from DPA World Series Qualifiers Merit Table, the top player from DPNZ World Series Qualifiers Merit Table and four other qualifiers.
“This year’s World Series of Darts is shaping up to be a thrilling set of tournaments,” said PDC chairman Barry Hearn.
“Michael Smith is enjoying his breakthrough year on the big stage after knocking on the door in recent times, and after having a taste of the World Series in 2017 has now got a great opportunity to light up the global stage.
“Raymond’s profile makes him a massive draw in New Zealand and Australia, where he has previously reached World Series finals, and as the sport’s elder statesman in playing terms will be a big drawcard for fans Down Under.”
As well as Melbourne, the World Series of Darts will head to Auckland and Brisbane on the Oceanic leg of the tour.
The Melbourne Darts Masters runs from August 10-12 at the Hisense Arena with tickets available from www.ticketek. com.au.
The Auckland Darts Masters will be held from August 3-5 at the Trusts Arena. For tickets, visit www.ticketek. co.nz.
Following the success of the sold-out International Pro Darts Showdown Series in January, Brisbane gets a first World Series of Darts event.
The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre will host the world’s best players from August 17-19.
For tickets, head to www. ticketek.com.au.