Abrupt end to Van Barneveld's World Matchplay return as sensational Searle thrashes Dutch icon with 105 average

Monday, 17 July 2023 at 21:50

All the talk going into Monday night's action surrounded the return after five years of Raymond van Barneveld to the World Matchplay, but just like his compatriot Michael van Gerwen, he was sent crashing out in the opening round.

But by an utterly sensational display by 'Heavy Metal' Ryan Searle who lost to the doyen of Dutch darts mere weeks ago at the European Darts Matchplay.

His new even heavier darts though have propelled him to new heights as he secured a 10-4 win with a 105 average and four 180's.

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Barely missing the treble with most visits, he could now face Peter Wright on Wednesday evening with a statement win under his belt.

After a closely ran first half of the match albeit with Searle having only one trebleless visit and the first interval, he surged ahead going 7-3 up with a 105 average and 64% on the doubles.

He continued to crush Barney adding two more legs without reply to go one away. The wheels threatened to come off momentarily as Searle squandered five match darts and Barney grabbed a reprieve at 9-4.

But Searle finally sealed it to deny him another opportunity to get closer and potentially stage a big comeback.

Where can I watch the World Matchplay on TV?

The tournament will be broadcast in full on Sky Sports going between Action and Main Event.

From Saturday, July 15 through Wednesday, July 20, broadcasts will begin around 7 p.m. ET. In addition, on Sunday, July 16, there will be an afternoon session starting at 1 p.m. After the second round, the starting time of the evening sessions moves up one hour.

On Sunday afternoon, July 24, the second edition of the Women's World Matchplay is scheduled to begin at 1:00 pm. Here, eight ladies will compete for the title at the most important women's tournament in the PDC.

How much prize money can be earned at the World Matchplay

After the World Darts Championship, the World Matchplay is the ranking tournament with the largest prize pool at the PDC. A total of 800,000 pounds of prize money is up for grabs at this event.

All 32 participants are guaranteed £10,000 in prize money. This could eventually add up to a check of as much as £200,000 for the darter who gets to lift the Phil Taylor Trophy on Sunday, July 23.

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TV Guide 2023 World Matchplay on Sky Sports

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SEARLE STUNS BARNEY! Ryan Searle produces the performance of the tournament so far to make it a losing return for Raymond van Barneveld! 📺 bit.ly/WM23Live | #WMDarts R1