Stephen Bunting Weathers Huge Scare 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 prestigious tournament on Sunday.
'The Bullet', who was a losing semi-finalist last year, was pushed all the way to a final-set shootout by Polish qualifier Sebastian Bialecki before finally clinching a 3-2 victory at the iconic Ally Pally venue.
A Turbulent Match
Bunting began in blistering fashion, posting a superb 119.4 as he powered through the first set. He looked in total control after landing a spectacular 160 finish to take the second set.
Nevertheless, his form dipped, and he managed just one leg over the next two sets. This let Bialecki – who remained oblivious even when a wasp landed on his shoulder – to draw level. Bunting steadied himself in the final set, but was still pushed to the limit before winning it 4-2.
“When you are playing at Alexandra Palace you experience all the feelings,” Bunting stated on broadcasters. “I knew Sebastian was going to be tough and even at 2-0 he never gave in. I am fortunate to get away with that one.”
Kumar Creates Groundbreaking Victory
Bunting's next opponent will be Nitin Kumar, who achieved a first by becoming the initial victor from India at the championship. He defeated Dutchman Richard Veenstra 3-2 in a thrilling contest.
The 40-year-old, who had been defeated in all four of his prior first-round appearances, suggested this landmark win could have “created a pathway to a billion potential” darts players from his homeland.
“I don’t know at this moment. I’m overwhelmed, I’m delighted,” said Kumar. “Dream big, anything is possible. This vision motivated me ever since I saw Dennis Priestley win the World Championship.”
He concluded with a humorous prediction: “I’m sorry, a decade from now if you have eight people in the world championship walking on to Bollywood music, you know who started it.”
Further Opening Day Results
- Darren Beveridge: The Scottish debutant made an impressive start, averaging 91.62 in a dominant 3-0 win over Belgium's Dimitri Van den Bergh, who managed just one leg.
- Jonny Tata: Another first-timer, from New Zealand, ended the hopes of world No. 27 Ritchie Edhouse with a resounding 3-0 victory.
- Dom Taylor: The other newcomer defeated Sweden’s Oskar Lukasiak by the identical 3-0 scoreline.
- Joe Cullen: The world No. 32 was in fine fettle as he comfortably defeated Bradley Brooks 3-0.
- Wesley Plaisier: The Dutch player beat Germany’s Lukas Wenig 3-1.
- James Hurrell: Rounded off the evening's play with a 3-1 victory over American Stowe Buntz.
