Luke Littler thrashes Josh Rock to reach World Matchplay semi-finals
Luke Littler has progressed to the semi-finals of the World Matchplay in Blackpool following a dominant victory over Josh Rock to continue his breathtaking title defence.
The world number one averaged 109 and hit 17 maximums to comprehensively dismantle his opponent.
His latest triumph secures a final-four showdown against Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode this weekend.
Historic tournament averages
The reigning champion arrived on the Lancashire coast already holding almost every major televised title, including the World Darts Championship and Premier League.
His current tournament average stands at a staggering 111 across nearly 60 legs of darts.
The campaign has been highlighted by several remarkable statistical achievements on the Winter Gardens stage:
- A 113 average in the first round, the second-highest in Matchplay history.
- A spectacular nine-dart finish against Nathan Aspinall.
- Back-to-back 109 averages in the second round and quarter-finals.
“I feel really good up on the stage. Preparations beforehand have gone really well, just relaxing, playing and relaxing again,” stated the teenager.
“As long as I can keep it up, I’m sure I will dominate.”
A daunting task for Van Duijvenbode
Littler’s victory over Rock marked his 27th consecutive win in matches extending beyond 20 legs.
He is now seeking to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen in 2016 to secure back-to-back Matchplay crowns.
Former world champion Mark Webster believes the English prodigy is operating on a completely unreachable level.
“He’s by far the best player in the world. It’s frightening form.” Mark Webster
Webster noted that Rock’s highly respectable 101 average was still punished by a bruising nine-leg margin of defeat.
“He looks comfortable in every scenario. Good luck to Dirk on Saturday,” Webster added.