The 2026 Winmau Challenge Tour burst into life in Milton Keynes on Friday, with Tommy Lishman and Joe Hunt claiming the opening two titles in a thrilling double-header to launch the new season.
Lishman secured his maiden Challenge Tour crown in Event One, overcoming Tommy Morris 5-2 in a high-quality final where both players averaged above 98. After falling behind 2-1, the 30-year-old responded in style, reeling off four straight legs—each in 16 darts or fewer—to seal an impressive comeback victory. His title run featured wins over Rob Channing, Jozsef Szlanyina, John Brown, Callum Francis, Jamie Hughes, Luke Smith and Lewis Pride, showcasing consistency and composure throughout a demanding day.
Morris was equally eye-catching en route to the final, producing a string of dominant performances that included three consecutive whitewash victories and a remarkable 107.36 average against Jenson Walker. Despite narrowly missing out on his first Challenge Tour title, the 33-year-old’s form marked him as a serious contender for the season ahead.
Event Two belonged to Joe Hunt, who claimed his second Challenge Tour title with a commanding 5-2 victory over Spanish World Cup star Jose Justicia. The Isle of Wight thrower impressed throughout the event, averaging in the mid-to-high 90s across multiple matches and producing his best display in the final with a 99.49 average.
Hunt’s path to glory included wins over Andy Courtney, Bradley van der Velden, Shaun Griffiths, Andy Hamilton, Ellis Hadfield and Matthew Dennant, before emphatic victories over Jenson Walker and Dylan Dowling set up his showdown with Justicia. The Spaniard also enjoyed a strong run to the final, recording multiple 93+ averages along the way.
Friday’s action was further highlighted by three nine-darters, underlining the quality on display as the Challenge Tour continues on Saturday with Events Three and Four at Arena MK.
Source: PDC.TV
