Gary Anderson, Adrian Lewis and James Wade in action at World Matchplay on Sunday
Sunday 17 July 2016 19:12, UK
Gary Anderson starts his pursuit of another major trophy at the World Matchplay when he faces Alan Norris in the first round on Sunday.
The Scotsman, who retained his World Championship title this year, is joined by fellow contenders Adrian Lewis, Peter Wright and James Wade in the evening session, live on Sky Sports.
Live World Matchplay Darts
Anderson claimed a recent confidence-boosting win over Michael van Gerwen in Tokyo, his third title in the World Series of Darts, but has never won the tournament at Winter Gardens.
"I don't know what it is but I've never seemed to do well in Blackpool before," said Anderson.
"To win any tournament is a big boost, so I'm feeling good going into the World Matchplay this year after winning in Japan.
There are so many quality players now and I think there might be quite a few upsets.
"There's some cracking draws and you never know what's going to happen, but I'll be giving it my best shot. There are so many quality players now and I think there might be quite a few upsets."
Former finalist Adrian Lewis, the No 4 seed, takes on Mark Webster, while world No 5 Peter Wright, a semi-finalist 12 months ago, is up against resurgent youngster Joe Cullen.
James Wade, a five-time finalist in the past decade, takes on Mervyn King in Sunday night's opener.
"It's my favourite tournament and favourite format," said the 2007 champion.
"The crowd are amazing and so is the venue, it's a lovely thing to be involved with. Every player in the competition has the ability to win a few matches so you've got to be at your best to do well."
Earlier in the afternoon, two-time finalist Terry Jenkins will take on Justin Pipe and Stephen Bunting has been drawn against the dangerous Mensur Suljovic.
Belgium's Kim Huybrechts and Ian White, who won a Players Championship this month, are also part of the afternoon schedule in Blackpool.
Afternoon Session (1pm-5pm)
Stephen Bunting v Mensur Suljovic
Kim Huybrechts v Gerwyn Price
Terry Jenkins v Justin Pipe
Ian White v Daryl Gurney
Evening Session (7pm-11pm)
James Wade v Mervyn King
Adrian Lewis v Mark Webster
Gary Anderson v Alan Norris
Peter Wright v Joe Cullen
