Anderson makes bold World Matchplay prediction after Bunting win: "Is Van Gerwen going to win it? No"

Gary Anderson eased past Stephen Bunting to open his World Matchplay account with 'The Bullet' not at the races and the former champion believes he got away with it.

"It was, a couple of weeks ago he won one of the ProTours which is a hard thing to do now. 180's he never hit which he usually hits a bundle of so got away with that one I think," said Anderson post match.

On his own display, this reflected in his thoughts and he admitted he will likely switch darts.

"We'll say poo, there's some bits they go fine, next minute they're all over the place but nah I think next time I'll go back to my old darts. They fit my hand absolutely fine but think they might be three to four grams a bit too light."

Next up is Nathan Aspinall and he is a player that Anderson admires despite his celebrations which he said he hits at the right time.

"He can shout and scream and he'll get the loudest kick between the legs he's ever had," he joked.

"I like Nathan, he's just a wee firecracker. He's a cracking player, he's up there to play darts. He'll not go up there and hit 80 or 100 and give it big to the crowd. We're supposed to be professional, we're supposed to hit 180's, big finishes."

On who he thinks will win it this year and the wide open nature of the field, he offered up a bold prediction.

"Is Van Gerwen going to win it? No. Am I going to win it? Probably not. Peter Wright? Probably not. I think you might see someone new win it this year."