Luke Humphries defies doubling woes to reach 2023 Grand Slam of Darts Final

Luke Humphries is into the final of the 2023 Grand Slam of Darts ending the run of James Wade in the process in a 16-10 win as 'Cool Hand Luke' continues his run as the favourite heading into tonight's showpiece in Wolverhampton.

Humphries will now face the winner of Stephen Bunting and Rob Cross who play in the second semi-final and it has also seen him qualify already for next year's Grand Slam of Darts by reaching the final. This was despite doubling woes which kept Wade interested.

'Cool Hand Luke' finished with 36 missed darts at double (16/52) meaning it could've been more comfortable in the end. But he is over the line and could add to his recent World Grand Prix breakout.

The opening two legs were shared before Humphries blasted in a 142 checkout to make it 2-1. Wade led 3-2 at the break after missed doubles blighted him.

This also saw Wade then lead 5-3. But 'The Machine' was uncharacteristically poor on the outer ring with Humphries going into a 7-5 lead after the second break. It was back and forth as Wade hit a 134 for 8-6 down and he was at 8-8 soon after.

But again Humphries streaked clear at 10-8. It was a nervy time as Humphries had to keep adding legs amid issues with doubles. But he made it 12-9 and 14-10. After a break he consolidated at 15-10 with a sixth 180 in the leg and no such dramas in finishing the tie as he hit a sumptuous 90 checkout for the win.