Richard Veenstra certainly does not underestimate World Championship opponent Ben Robb: "Towards 100 average will be needed"

Richard Veenstra will make his debut at this year's PDC World Darts Championship. The 42-year-old Dutchman will take on New Zealander Ben Robb in the opening round.

Veenstra still knows little about his opponent. "I have heard of him and seen him play a few times, but I don't know him well. I don't have to, I'll just assume my own strength and we'll see," Veenstra told Viaplay.

Commentator Jacques Nieuwlaat recently saw Robb in action at the WDF World Cup. "He is New Zealand's best player and is certainly not to be underestimated. At the World Cup he won the pairs tournament alongside Haupai Puha. Both men reached a very good level and showed what they are capable of. Still, I think Richard should be able to win this match. Robb also throws at a high pace and that suits Richard, it will be a fast match."

There will be no question of underestimating Veenstra anyway. "Everyone who is at the World Championship has more than earned their spot. They can all throw a dart. I myself have to try to go towards the hundred average and then I definitely have a chance to survive a few rounds," said 'Flyers'.

Veenstra has previously competed six times at the BDO/WDF World Championship. Both in 2016 and 2022 he reached the semi-finals. The Dutchman only acquired a PDC Tour Card at the beginning of this year and has had an excellent debut year in the PDC, already climbing to 79th place in the world rankings and a good performance at the World Championship could even lead him to the top 64.

If Veenstra survives the first round, he may face 31st-seeded Belgian Kim Huybrechts in the second round.