Gerwyn Price secured his place in the World Matchplay quarter‑finals with a decisive 11‑5 victory over Rob Cross, a win that was made even more noteworthy after Cameron Menzies was forced to withdraw from his earlier match because of illness. The tournament, staged at Blackpool’s historic Winter Gardens, saw a dramatic turn of events on the opening night.
Menzies, who had been battling Ross Smith, began the encounter strongly and was leading 2‑1 when he suddenly felt dizzy on stage. The sensation escalated quickly; he later fainted and was escorted off the arena by medical personnel. After a thorough check‑up, doctors cleared him to return to his hotel, but his condition meant he could not continue. Consequently, the match was abandoned and Smith was awarded a place in the last eight.
He will now face Price, who had just wrapped up his own match with a commanding performance. Price’s contest with Cross was a study in momentum shifts. After an early exchange that left the score at 3‑2 in Cross’s favour, Price seized control, stringing together six consecutive legs to surge ahead 8‑3.
Although Cross rallied briefly, narrowing the gap to 8‑5, the Welshman responded with three more flawless legs, sealing the match at 11‑5. As the final dart landed, Price let out his trademark roar, a sound that has become synonymous with his fierce competitive spirit. Reflecting on his performance, Price told Sky Sports, “I felt like I was struggling all through the game. I couldn’t find my scoring rhythm; it was up and down.
If I want to win this tournament I need to be a lot better than that, but I’m heading in the right direction.” He added, “I need that energy, I need that buzz, and Ross (Smith) brings that. You’re going to see the old me. As long as the fans accept it, I’ll be back.” The withdrawal of Menzies was confirmed by a statement from the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). The organization explained that Menzies experienced a spike in blood pressure, which caused dizziness and ultimately a fainting episode.
After being examined by the on‑site medical team, he was deemed fit to return to his accommodation but not well enough to resume play. Menzies had entered the match riding a wave of confidence after a career‑defining first‑round victory over world No. 2 Luke Humphries. That win had marked the biggest triumph of his career to date and raised expectations for a deep run in the tournament.
In the other quarter‑final slot, Dutch rising star Gian van Veen will meet James Wade for the second consecutive year. Van Veen is eager to avenge his narrow 16‑13 loss to Wade in the 2025 edition. He earned his place by edging out fellow Dutchman Wessel Nijman in a thrilling 14‑12 tie‑break.
The encounter with Nijman had been a showcase of Dutch talent, with Nijman having already captured six Pro Tour titles in 2026 and looking to translate his floor‑game success to the big stage. Van Veen displayed his class early, breaking Wade’s throw twice in the first session, including a spectacular 135 checkout on the bull, and sprinting to a 4‑1 lead. Nijman fought back valiantly, hitting a series of maximums and taking four of the next five legs to level the match at 5‑5. Sky Sports Darts analyst Wayne Mardle described the contest as “edgy but enthralling,” noting that both players were averaging around the high 90s.
The battle remained tight, with Nijman again breaking and briefly moving ahead 11‑10. However, Van Veen responded with an astonishing 148 checkout under immense pressure, forcing a 11‑11 tie. The decisive moment arrived in the 25th leg when Van Veen broke Nijman’s throw once more and, on double 16, clinched the match, denying Nijman his first major quarter‑final appearance.
James Wade’s final group match saw him overcome a resilient Ryan Searle 11‑8, securing his 14th quarter‑final spot in what is his 21st World Matchplay appearance. The opening exchanges were evenly matched, each player holding their throw, leaving the score dead‑locked at 5‑5.
Wade then produced a brilliant 121 bullseye checkout and followed it with a hold of throw to move ahead 8‑5. Although Searle managed a break to narrow the deficit, Wade’s composure shone through with a clutch 143 finish, extending his lead to 9‑7. He maintained his poise, ultimately sealing his place on double 12. The quarter‑finals will kick off on Thursday, with live coverage beginning at 7:30 pm on Sky Sports Action and Main Event.
Fans can also look forward to a replay of the 2025 semi‑final epic, as Luke Littler faces Josh Rock for a spot in the final four. Meanwhile, Gary Anderson will square off against Dirk van Duijvenbode for another semi‑final berth. As the tournament progresses, the question on everyone’s mind is who will claim this year’s World Matchplay title. Defending champion Luke Littler will be looking to retain his crown, while a field of seasoned veterans and hungry newcomers promises a week of high‑octane darts.
All the action will be streamed live on Sky Sports, with additional streaming options available through NOW for viewers who prefer online access.