Luke Humphries delivered a clear message to the competition ahead of the World Cup of Darts. It will take quite a feat to beat him and Luke Littler.
The world number one will team with reigning world champion Luke Littler, who is making his debut at the Nations Tournament, from June 12 to 15 in Frankfurt. The English duo is considered towering favorites for the overall victory, and Humphries is convinced of their potential.
Just last Thursday, Littler showed why he is so feared. In Week 15 of the Premier League in Aberdeen, he defeated Humphries 6-3 in a spectacular high-level match. Littler recorded an average of 116, compared to 110 for Humphries. Together they threw as many as 14 180s.
Humphries is looking forward to their collaboration on the world stage. “I feel like the fans are going to enjoy watching us both play together," he said in interview with Weekly Dartscast. "The two best players in the world, a lot of pressure is going to be on our shoulders. I think everybody is expecting us to win it and no one’s going to touch us."
Still, the seven-time major winner does not underestimate the competition. He knows there are dangerous opponents around. “There are great teams in there. The likes of Gezzy [Price] and Jonny [Clayton] are a potential banana skin. Gian van Veen is playing really well. Him and Danny [Noppert], if they get going, that’s a tough team. Gary [Anderson] and Peter [Wright], Peter’s playing better again now.
Nevertheless, Humphries remains confident in England's chances. "But if me and Luke gel and everything goes well, it’s going to be an incredibly tough performance to beat us both.”
England is defending champion at the tournament. Last year, Humphries and Michael Smith won the fifth World Cup title for their country.
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