The Sports Lowdown For All Your News and OpinionsThe draw has been made for the World Grand Prix in Dublin that begins next Sunday. The draw has thrown up some interesting ties, including that of Adrian Lewis – the number five seed – against Raymond van Barneveld.
The five-time World Champion made the final on Sunday’s ProTour, securing his place at this tournament, and the pair played out an absolute classic in Auckland at the World Series, the same again wouldn’t be greeted with discontent.
Number one seed and reigning champion Michael van Gerwen faces World Youth Champion Keegan Brown whilst World Champion Gary Anderson takes on fellow Scotsman John Henderson in his first round tie.
Phil Taylor will be looking for his twelfth Grand Prix title in Dublin and he begins his quest with a match against Vincent van der Voort, whilst Peter Wright faces a tough test against Premier League rival Dave Chisnall.
James Wade takes on the methodical Mensur Suljovic, whilst Robert Thornton will be up against the home crowd when he takes on Daryl Gurney. Eighth and final seed Michael Smith will face Gerwyn Price in a repeat of the World Matchplay, where Price knocked out ‘Bullyboy’. Here is the draw bracket and first round draw in full.
Michael van Gerwen (1) v Keegan Brown
Kim Huybrechts v Benito van de Pas
Michael Smith (8) v Gerwyn Price
William O’Connor v Jamie Lewis
Adrian Lewis (5) v Raymond van Barneveld
Mark Webster v Stephen Bunting
Peter Wright (4) v Dave Chisnall
Jelle Klaasen v Brendan Dolan
Gary Anderson (2) v John Henderson
Ian White v Jamie Caven
Robert Thornton (7) v Daryl Gurney
Justin Pipe v Steve Beaton
James Wade (6) v Mensur Suljovic
Andrew Gilding v Simon Whitlock
Phil Taylor (3) v Vincent van der Voort
Mervyn King v Terry Jenkins
The schedule will be confirmed on Monday and will be updated below as soon as possible.
