Krzysztof Ratajski thrilled the home crowd in Krakow to book a blockbuster clash with world number two Luke Humphries at the SUPERBET Poland Darts Open.
On the European Tour’s first visit to Poland, Ratajski overcame former Grand Slam semi-finalist Mickey Mansell 6-3 at the EXPO, defying an average of almost 99 with a clinical display.
“This was one of the most valuable wins in my career, for sure,” insisted Ratajski.
“I was very nervous tonight. The expectation was high, but I played my game and I’m really happy I won for this great crowd.
“Of course I want to win [against Humphries]. This will be something special, but I will prepare like I always do for every game.”
Elsewhere, Andrew Gilding averaged 106.55 to overturn a 3-0 deficit and stun Jeffrey de Graaf. He now faces Gian van Veen.
Connor Scutt edged out Damon Heta despite a stirring fightback, while Wessel Nijman set up a tie with Gary Anderson.
Dirk van Duijvenbode fell 6-3 to Adam Gawlas, who now meets Premier League leader Jonny Clayton.
Spanish star Cristo Reyes and Belgium’s Mike De Decker also advanced, the latter earning a meeting with world number one Luke Littler.
Victories for Boris Krcmar, Cameron Menzies, James Wade, Darryl Pilgrim and Luke Woodhouse completed a dramatic opening day, with Round Two headlined by Littler, Humphries and Van Veen.
Source: PDC.TV
