'Lazy' Michael Smith increases practice hours: ''I'm sick of losing''

Reigning champion Michael Smith made a winning start to his title defence at the Grand Slam of Darts on Saturday night. Smith won his opening group game 5-2 against Nathan Girvan.

"Scoring wasn't great, but finishing was there, everything was there when I needed I did it," Smith reflected post-match to Online Darts. "Overall I'm happy, another win in the group, two points and a decent leg difference so overall it's good."

Having finally managed to end his long wait for a major title last year in Wolverhampton, the Grand Slam of Darts understandably holds a special place with Smith. "I just love this event. I love to play, I love to get here and there's a reason why 32 players in this event. You've got to win something to get here and it does feel special when you win this as well."

"I was nervous yesterday on the train because it's the first time I've had to defend something but as soon as John McDonald said my name, all the butterflies went then."

After winning the Grand Slam last year, Smith kicked on to crown himself World Champion. Since then though, 'Bully Boy' hasn't had the best of years. Nevertheless, Smith has enjoyed every second.

"I've had a hell of a time this year. I've been on so many holidays, so many nights out with friends and everything, having a few drinks and just celebrating what I've done. I know I'll win it again but in the back of my mind it's like 'if I don't, I might as well enjoy it!'"

In order to get back into top form, Smith has been practicing hard with the man he beat in the final of last year's Grand Slam, Nathan Aspinall. "Me and Nathan are really good mates," he explains. "I'd love to think if I was in trouble he'd back me up and he was in trouble I'd back him up."

"I think we've done six sessions in two weeks and we've put about 36 hours in. It's non-stop pounding the board," he reveals. "I've been lazy this year and I'm sick of losing."