January 2nd 2025.
Luke Littler opted out of a practice session with Stephen Bunting before the World Darts Championship, choosing to stick to his own routine instead. However, fate had other plans as the two will now face each other in the semi-finals at Alexandra Palace on Thursday night. Littler defeated Nathan Aspinall while Bunting took down Peter Wright in their respective matches on Wednesday evening.
Interestingly, both players are sponsored by Target and Bunting had expressed interest in practicing with Littler before the championship. In an interview with OCHE prior to the event, he mentioned that he had already practiced with Luke Humphries and was planning to do the same with Littler, whom he considers to be one of the best players in the world at the moment. Bunting also praised Littler for bringing a fresh energy to the world of darts, with everyone talking about his talent.
However, after Bunting's 5-2 victory over Wright, he was asked if the practice sessions with Littler had taken place, to which he jokingly replied that Littler did not reach out to him. Bunting also mentioned that Littler's father did discuss the possibility of practicing together, but it did not work out due to various reasons. Nevertheless, Bunting has a lot of respect for Littler and his family, acknowledging the impact they have had on the sport.
Littler, on the other hand, explained that he did not ignore Bunting's offer but preferred to practice on his own at home. He clarified that there was no animosity between them and that he gets along well with Bunting, just like he does with Aspinall, his quarter-final opponent. Littler's focus now is to reach the final, and he is determined to give it his all.
Despite being considered the underdog in his upcoming match against Littler, Bunting sees it as an advantage as it takes off some of the pressure. However, he also acknowledges that Littler has been in top form and has handled the pressure well, having won the Premier League last year. Bunting is impressed by Littler's performance on the big stage, especially considering his young age and relatively new career in the sport.
In the other semi-final, Michael van Gerwen will take on Chris Dobey. Van Gerwen, a three-time world champion, is the favorite to win the match, but Dobey is not to be underestimated, despite this being his first appearance in the Ally Pally semi-finals. Van Gerwen's performance in his previous match against Callan Rydz was exceptional, with an average score of 103.10, compared to Dobey's 95.38 against Gerwyn Price in another exciting match. It will be a thrilling evening of darts as the four players battle it out for a spot in the final.
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