Luke Littler’s next World Matchplay opponent once broke a golden rule of darts before issuing a grovelling apology. Tournament favourite Littler continues his quest for a maiden Matchplay title against Jermaine Wattimena on Wednesday.
The pair have met twice before, with The Nuke winning on both occasions. Wattimena has occasionally got under the skin of opponents, with one even refusing to shake his hand following one incident. At last year’s Dutch Darts Championship, Wattimena took on Joe Cullen in a match that went to a last-leg decider. During the decisive leg, as Cullen stepped up for a visit, Wattimena tried to gee up the home fans with hand gestures in an apparent attempt to gain an edge.
On PDC commentary, Dan Dawson said: “He probably did break some etiquette rules there. You don’t play to the crowd when your opponent is about to toe the oche.”
Wattimena went on to win the leg, only for Cullen to refuse the customary post-match handshake. Following the incident, Wattimena conceded he was in the wrong and made a public apology.
He told Algemeen Dagblad: “He didn’t give a hand and then I made a move. Did I do it on purpose? No.
“It was in the heat of the moment. Sorry to Joe Cullen, it was not the intention. I understand he’s upset, because you just can’t do this, I know what I’m doing wrong. Hopefully, he understands. I’m not happy about it.”
After world No.1 and defending champion Luke Humphries crashed out to Gian van Veen on the opening night, Littler cantered to a 10-2 victory over Ryan Searle in the opening round. The world champion was imperious from start to finish in his Winter Gardens opener, averaging 108.92 and crashing in five 180s.
Littler said: “I was well up for tonight. I really wanted that winning feeling. I’m so glad to get my first win here, and I cannot wait to come back on Wednesday.
“I’ve been practising so much recently. I’ve been putting the hours in, and I’m glad it’s paid off tonight. I think all eyes are on me now, but I will just take it game by game.”
Meanwhile, Wattimena booked his place in the last 16 with a tight 10-8 over former Matchplay champion Peter Wright. On facing Littler, he said: “I’ve never played bad against him. If you want to win a tournament, you have to be beat the best player in the world.”