Noppert gives Netherlands good chance of title win at World Cup of Darts: ''We're going to fight hard for that''

Danny Noppert will represent the Netherlands for the third time at the World Cup of Darts this weekend. This year he will once again form a duo with Dirk van Duijvenbode.

The darter from Joure considers it an honour to play for the Netherlands in the Nations tournament. "Of course, it is always special to play for the Netherlands. It is an appreciation for what you do. That is special,'' Noppert told TOTO Dart Kings about his invitation to the Dutch team.

The Nations tournament is a good chance for Noppert to secure qualification for the Grand Slam of Darts. For this, a final place will suffice. ''Placement for the Grand Slam I indeed don't have yet. Dirk has already won a number of Pro Tours, of course. I haven't reached a final yet and then this tournament is a chance.''

Noppert was originally due to compete with Michael van Gerwen at the World Cup of Darts. Mighty Mike underwent dental surgery on Monday and has not yet recovered sufficiently. So now Noppert forms a team with Van Duijvenbode. Will such a late adjustment affect the preparation?

''Actually no. I know how to get along with both, so that's not a problem. Darts is also quite an individual sport actually, but now there is something about pairs. You know, I'm a bit calmer on stage. Dirk is a bit more exuberant, but last time it was also good with each other.''

Last year, darters also played singles at the World Cup of Darts, but this year the PDC has changed the format and the entire tournament will only be played pairs matches. This change gets the approval of 'The Freeze'.

''I had a quick look on Thursday night and you do see a bit different experience on stage now. We saw with Belgium what can also happen, but fortunately, Dirk and I didn't. You're much more directly connected to each other now, instead of one of you standing throwing and the other having to watch on a screen.''

Finally, Noppert estimates the Dutch team's chances at the World Cup of Darts. ''I do rate the chances highly. We are both doing well this year, especially Dirk with a number of Pro Tour wins. I think we definitely have a chance to win this tournament. We will fight very hard for that,'' Noppert said.