Michael van Gerwen started his defence of the World Matchplay title with a whitewash win

Michael van Gerwen sent out a warning to his title rivals at the World Matchplay after completing a 10-0 whitewash win over Jamie Caven in the first round.

The defending champion produced a ruthless performance against the helpless Caven, hitting 50 per cent of his doubles at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.

Robert Thornton had earlier claimed his first win at the tournament at the seventh attempt, while Dave Chisnall and Kyle Anderson are also safely through to the second round. 

But Van Gerwen set the standard on the opening evening, ending with an average of over 105 and allowing Caven only four darts at a double.

In a blistering start to the match, Van Gerwen was averaging over 107 as he completed an 11-darter to move 5-0 up in under 10 minutes.

The outgunned Caven could not match the red-hot scoring of 'Mighty Mike', who finished 80 on tops to seal his perfect victory and will next face Australia's Anderson.

Thornton had earlier been forced to work for his maiden win in the World Matchplay, overcoming Josh Payne 10-7.

The spirited 22-year-old had given the Scot a scare by pulling into a 5-4 lead, but Thornton punished stray darts at the double from Payne to finally end his wretched record.

Chisnall, another Premier League player, also had to endure a few uncomfortable moments before emerging with a 10-7 win over Benito van de Pas.

The Dutchman produced a superb 135-finish on the bull to level the match at 7-7, but Chisnall reeled off the next three legs for victory.

In the opening match of the night, Anderson took advantage of a lacklustre display from Vincent van der Voort in a comfortable 10-4 win. 

World Matchplay, night one results:

Kyle Anderson 10-4 Vincent van der Voort

Robert Thornton 10-7 Josh Payne

Michael van Gerwen 10-0 Jamie Caven

Dave Chisnall 10-7 Benito van de Pas