Stephen Bunting Weathers Significant Fright as The Indian pioneer Creates A Landmark for India.
The 2024 semi-finalist edged through a tense battle to move into the second round of the world darts championship on the opening weekend.
Bunting, who reached losing semi-finalist last year, was forced all the way to a dramatic fifth leg by Polish qualifier Sebastian Bialecki before finally clinching a 3-2 victory at Alexandra Palace.
An Eventful Battle
Bunting began in blistering fashion, posting a superb 119.4 as he powered through the opening set. He looked in total control after landing a spectacular 160 finish to seize the second set.
However, his momentum stalled, and he managed just one leg over the next two sets. This enabled Bialecki – who remained unfazed even when a wasp landed on his shoulder – to pull back. Bunting steadied himself in the decider, but was still pushed to the limit before securing it 4-2.
“Competing at Alexandra Palace you go through all the feelings,” Bunting stated on broadcasters. “I knew Sebastian was going to be tough and even at 2-0 he never surrendered. I am fortunate to get away with that one.”
Kumar Creates Landmark Victory
Bunting's second-round foe will be 'The Royal Bengal', who made history by becoming the first Indian winner at the event. He beat Dutchman Richard Veenstra 3-2 in a thrilling contest.
The veteran player, who had lost in all four of his prior first-round matches, suggested this breakthrough could have “paved the way to a billion” darts players from his homeland.
“I’m lost for words right now. I’m ecstatic, I’m thrilled,” said Kumar. “If you dream it, anything is possible. This vision motivated me ever since I watched Dennis Priestley win the World Championship.”
He added with a light-hearted prediction: “I’m sorry, a decade down the line if you have eight people in the world championship entering to Indian film songs, you know who started it.”
Further First-Round Action
- Darren Beveridge: The Scottish debutant made an convincing start, averaging 91.62 in a comprehensive 3-0 win over Belgium's Dimitri Van den Bergh, who managed just one leg.
- Jonny Tata: Another debutant, from New Zealand, ended the hopes of world No. 27 Ritchie Edhouse with a clear 3-0 victory.
- Dom Taylor: The fellow newcomer beat Sweden’s Oskar Lukasiak by the identical 3-0 scoreline.
- Joe Cullen: The world No. 32 was in fine fettle as he eased past Bradley Brooks 3-0.
- Wesley Plaisier: The Dutch player overcame Germany’s Lukas Wenig 3-1.
- James Hurrell: Concluded the evening's play with a 3-1 victory over America’s Stowe Buntz.