Huybrechts satisfied with new format at World Cup of Darts: "Pairs matches are an advantage for Dimitri and me anyway"

Kim Huybrechts is happy with the new format of the World Cup of Darts. From now on, only pair matches will still be played and the first round will be in a group format.

This year, 40 instead of 32 countries are also taking part in the World Cup of Darts. "Very nice," Huybrechts told HLN.be. "Okay, the level will probably go down. But it's nice to see new countries and faces. They will also play at least two matches, which makes travelling more worthwhile anyway."

That only pairs matches will be played applauds Huybrechts. "That's the nicest news. An advantage for Dimitri Van den Bergh and me anyway. We are well matched. It also offers perspective against countries like the Netherlands and England, because they have an advantage in singles matches anyway. In pairs matches, anything can happen. I'm glad the PDC finally realises that a new format is fun for the players."

The top four are exempt in the first round, but that does not include Belgium. "That doesn't have to be a disadvantage for us. You have to push through, of course, but that way you have already played a few games."

How does Huybrechts rate Belgium's chances? "I don't think we are suddenly more or less favourite now. We are somewhere between fellow favourites and dangerous outsiders. We belong. Why shouldn't we be able to shock? I myself always perform well at the World Cup of Darts, hopefully this year will be no different. I'm already counting down."