The World Matchplay begins tonight in Milton Keynes and ahead of proceedings beginning, Wayne Mardle has spoke about potential first round upsets.

Mardle has picked the likes of Michael Smith and Simon Whitlock who could find themselves out early when they take to the stage in Milton Keynes.

“The two players who are going to be less confident than they were going into the event because of the Summer Series are Michael Smith and Joe Cullen. Yes there were some good games, but not enough,” said Mardle to Sky Sports.

“The draw is quite interesting. You have got Ian White taking on Joe Cullen again. Last year that was a 10-0 win for Ian White. Joe Cullen went into that match and I quietly fancied him!

Daryl Gurney takes on Ricky Evans again. They met in the Matchplay last year and Gurney beat him. There are some intriguing ones.“

“I've been a real fan of Michael Smith. I think he has got it. I don't know what happened to him in the Summer Series. There were some real poor games and low averages in the 80s - that is not Michael Smith.

Jonny Clayton will look at that thinking: 'Do you know what, I've got a hell of a chance'. I think that could be an upset.

Ryan Joyce who qualified on the back of that incredible win against Chizzy, he's got Simon Whitlock. Whitlock is just inconsistent. We don't know what to expect from him.”