Luke Littler launched his quest for a second Bahrain Darts Masters crown in emphatic style, dismantling darting legend Paul Lim 6-1 to headline a dominant opening night in Sakhir. Day One of the year’s first World Series of Darts event saw all eight PDC superstars book their place on Finals Day, with Littler and world number two Luke Humphries producing the most eye-catching performances.

Fresh from retaining the Sid Waddell Trophy, Littler marked his first competitive outing as a two-time World Champion with authority. Averaging over 106, the teenager surged past Lim in a compelling generational clash, electrifying the crowd with a stunning 170 checkout before backing it up with a clinical 121 finish. Reflecting on the win, Littler said, “Paul’s been performing well for many, many years… He’s a class act and he’s still going strong, but thankfully I was able to kick on and get the win.” He added, “It’s always good to be back in Bahrain… you want to start the year off right, with a title.”

Humphries was equally convincing, recording a third straight whitewash of Bahrain’s Abdulla Saeed with a 103.66 average. “I’m pretty happy with my performance,” he admitted, as he sets up a semi-final place showdown with Nathan Aspinall.

Defending champion Stephen Bunting also advanced, overcoming Ryusei Azemoto 6-2 to tee up a heavyweight clash with three-time World Champion Michael van Gerwen. The Dutchman fought back from behind to beat Alexis Toylo and continue his pursuit of a record-extending 17th World Series title.

Further progress came for Gian van Veen, Danny Noppert, Gerwyn Price, and Aspinall, completing a star-studded quarter-final line-up. With Finals Day looming, Bahrain is poised for a thrilling conclusion as the sport’s elite battle for the first title of the season.

Source: PDC.TV