26/08/2024

Luke Littler triumphs on debut at exhibition tournament in Wales

Luke Littler took the overall victory Saturday at an exhibition tournament in the Welsh capital Cardiff. For "The Nuke," it was his debut at an exhibition event.

The exhibition tournament at the Vale Sports Arena featured a total of eight players. In addition to Littler, Chris Dobey, Berry van Peer, Gerwyn Price, Rusty-Jake Rodriguez, Peter Manley, Jonny Clayton and Jeff Smith were also in attendance.

Dobey impressed in the first round by winning 3-0 against Berry van Peer with an average of 112.74. In this match 'Hollywood' recorded an 11-darter and a 13-darter. Gerwyn Price narrowly beat Rusty-Jake Rodriguez 3-2, while Littler had to pull out all the stops to deal with darts veteran Peter Manley (3-2). Jeff Smith then pulled off a surprise in the last quarterfinal by beating Jonny Clayton 3-1 with an average of 98.

"Me and Gezzy, it's definitely a rivalry" - Luke Littler makes exhibition debut against old foe in Wales

Dobey then provided the elimination of local favorite Price by knocking out "The Iceman" 3-2. Littler then qualified for the final with a 3-1 win over Smith. In the final, Littler then prevailed 3-0.

On stage, Littler was still being interviewed by Sky Sports presenter Polly James. She asked 'The Nuke' about his rapport with Price.

"Me and Gezzy, it's definitely a rivalry," Littler laughs, after being reminded of his recent battering at the Welshman's hands in the final of the Australian Darts Masters. "I've been good, made a lot of rivalries this year since I burst onto the scene and I like having that with someone."

Finally, no trip to Wales is complete without trying the local delicacies and on his exhibition debut, Littler was gifted just such a treat. "Have you ever tried a Welsh Cake before?" James asks Littler, to which he shakes his head somewhat confused. "Well, these are like sweet treats that we have here in Wales and I thought that you could try one before you go on stage. Would you like to try one?"

Despite being put on the spot, Littler wasn't into the idea however. "Nah, I'm alright," he says with a wry smile.