December 20, 2023, 10:23 p.m
Updated 10 minutes ago
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Littler had a 50% success rate on his doubles against Kist
16-year-old Luke Littler made it to the second round of the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship – but former champion Peter Wright was eliminated.
Littler, making his debut in the competition, produced an impressive performance as he beat Dutchman Christian Kist 3-0 at Alexandra Palace.
But two-time winner Wright struggled and was beaten 3-0 by Jim Williams.
England’s Littler said on Sky Sports: “I’m over the moon. I can’t believe how quickly I got used to the game.”
“As I went along I was a little nervous, but once I found the rhythm I was into it.”
Littler hit seven 180s and an average of 106.12 en route to victory and will play compatriot Andrew Gilding in the next round on Thursday.
Wright could only average 83.87 and only managed to hit four of 18 double attempts as the 2020 and 2022 title winner was brushed aside by Welshman Williams in his second round match.
Ross Smith hit seven 180s and recorded the second 170 checkout of the tournament in his second-round win over Niels Zonneveld.
“It wasn't a great game and I didn't play anywhere near what I could,” said Smith, who was stung by a wasp on the stage after the game. “But now I can enjoy my turkey and pigs in blankets.
“I tried to get some fire in my belly but it was really difficult. I've been a bit nervous the last few days, everyone is like that because you just want to get through it.”
“I’m going to relax now and hopefully I’ll feel better after Christmas.”
Wednesday's results
Radek Szaganski (Pol) 3-2 Marko Kantele (Fin) (R1)
Steve Lennon (Irish) 3-2 Owen Bates (Eng) (R1)
William O'Connor (Ireland) 3-0 Bhav Patel (Ind) (R1)
Ross Smith (Eng) 3-1 Niels Zonneveld (Down) (R2)
Ryan Joyce (Eng) 3-1 Alex Spellman (USA) (R1)
Richard Veenstra (defeat) 3:0 Ben Robb (New Zealand) (R1)
Luke Littler (Eng) 3-0 Christian Kist (Ned) (R1)
Jim Williams (Whale) 3-0 Peter Wright (Sco) (R2)
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