Race to the 2018 World Matchplay hots up after Ratajski gains

Krzysztof Ratajski is in line to make his first World Matchplay after an excellent run in Wigan.

The Polish Eagle came out on top in UK Open Qualifying 6. Thanks to the £10,000 earned for that win, Ratajski is 22nd in the table in the Race for the World Matchplay. Some solid performances in Wigan have also cemented Steve Beaton's provisional place. However, Corey Cadby is still on the outside, looking in. The Aussie ace is a mere £500 away from qualification. Martin Schindler is only £500 behind the King.
Speaking of King - Mervyn King is one of the highest-ranked players set to miss out. The highest ranked of them is Benito van de Pas, who endured a torrid time in UK Open qualifying. There are still 25 ranking events to be played before the cut-off. That gives some players plenty of time to earn a spot, while others need to hang on. The top 16 in the PDC Order of Merit automatically earn a place in Blackpool. Raymond van Barneveld, though far adrift in the Race table, will qualify due to his overall ranking. The next 16 in the ProTour table will also book their trip to the Winter Gardens.
https://twitter.com/eamiddelkoop/status/962794292338098176