Glen Durrant names Martin Schindler as World Matchplay dark horse: 'He is very close to winning a major. He has all the attributes you need'

Martin Schindler is enjoying the best year of his career on the PDC circuit, and according to former Premier League champion Glen Durrant, the German is “very close to winning a major.” Durrant sees a completely different player now compared to the talented but often nervy version of a few years ago.

The 28-year-old, currently ranked 18th in the world, has already had an outstanding 2025 season, picking up titles on both the Euro Tour and Players Championship circuit, and firmly establishing himself in the top 20 of the PDC Order of Merit.

Reflecting on Schindler’s development, Durrant said: “Four years ago, I would have said he lacked bottle at the end — he put himself in terrific positions. But I don’t think he will make it. I stood behind where I didn’t fancy him to see off the job. He is a totally different animal now.”

Durrant believes it’s the European Tour that has provided the perfect proving ground for the German. “I go back to my school days where we had mock exams. The European Tour are mock exams, and he is flourishing. He is passing with an A+. He is ready for a major.”

Schindler kicks off his World Matchplay campaign this weekend in Blackpool with a first-round tie against Jonny Clayton — an opponent he’s already faced five times this year. Their upcoming clash will mark their sixth meeting of 2025.

“It is no surprise he drew Jonny Clayton because this is the sixth time they are going to be playing in 2025,” Durrant continued.

So far, the World Matchplay hasn’t brought Schindler much success — he’s yet to win a match on the iconic Winter Gardens stage in three previous appearances. But with his current form, rising confidence and a string of strong results behind him, this could finally be the moment he breaks that streak.

And for Durrant, the signs are clear: “I think Schindler is very close to winning a major. It is hard to win a major, but he has all the attributes you need.”