Michael Smith is the first player through to the World Matchplay semi-finals after seeing off Krzysztof Ratajski in a 16-13 victory to open up proceedings on Thursday night.

Smith will move into his second successive semi-final in the World Matchplay and into potentially his best chance yet to win a first major title after many seeds have fallen by the wayside. It was a thrilling tie which saw a 98.5 average from 'Bully Boy' and 13 180's and 48% on the doubles.

It was back and forth between the duo with it going 3-2 to Smith and 5-5 at the first two sessions. From there Ratajski looked to lead going 8-7 up with a brilliant 161 checkout despite averaging six points less than his opponent and being behind on every statistic.

Smith was the first to get into double figures in a nip and tuck affair and opened up a two leg lead at the next break at 11-9 up. He surged into a 14-9 lead with a break of throw which ultimately was the catalyst.

This meant that despite The Polish Eagle going 14-12 behind with three legs in a row, all Smith needed technically was one more leg to go one away and put Ratajski on the point of no return. He did so and finalised proceedings 16-13 to dispel his charge.

Click here for more information about the World Matchplay, including the tournament bracket, TV coverage and prize money breakdown.

Schedule World Matchplay 2020

Quarter-Finals
Thursday July 23

Krzysztof Ratajski (93.82) 13-16 (98.32) Michael Smith
Simon Whitlock v Gary Anderson

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