Former BDO World Champion Mark Webster has insisted that England are the team to beat at the upcoming World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt, declaring: “England, they can’t not win it.” The tournament kicks off on 11th June and runs for four days, with Luke Littler and Luke Humphries once again representing England as they look to bring the trophy back home.
Last year, the world number one and two were heavy favourites but suffered a shock 8-4 defeat to Germany’s Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko in front of a raucous home crowd, failing to win a single game. Webster acknowledged the upset but remains confident this time around. “I know they got beat by Germany last year, but it was a race to eight. So, it’s a long format. I was puzzled by that. I think the atmosphere maybe got to them as well. I mean, walking out, what did they walk out to Vindaloo? That got the German crowd going. It was a brilliant atmosphere. It was incredible. But I just think this year, surely, it’s got to be, hasn’t it?”
Speaking on the Double Tops podcast, Webster also assessed England’s main rivals. He noted that the Welsh side “isn’t as strong” and questioned how Cameron Menzies will react alongside Gary Anderson, while pointing out that Pietreczko “is having issues with his throw.” However, he identified the Netherlands as the biggest threat, with world number three and four Gian van Veen and Michael van Gerwen teaming up for the first time. “I like the Dutch team,” Webster said. “I think since Michael and Raymond [van Barneveld] have split, there’s been so many pairings and they’ve never looked right. There’s been so many variations of the Dutch team. Surely on this occasion, this is the best blend they’ve had. And there’s that hunger.”
Webster also highlighted an extra motivation for Van Gerwen: “Michael hasn’t got a Grand Slam spot yet. So, this is a good way in. Players see this as a good way in because you’re lightening your load as well a bit, because obviously if you’re under pressure, you’ve got someone to help you out.” With England’s star duo determined to make amends for last year’s early exit, all eyes will be on Frankfurt as the World Cup gets underway.
