Michael Smith tipped for good World Championship run

World number four Michael Smith has been tipped to have a good run at this year’s World Championships, despite a tough draw.

St Helens-based Smith and fellow Merseysider Stephen Bunting take to the stage on December 23.

‘The Bullet’ Bunting will face off against the world number 58 Andy Boulton and Smith will face off against Jason Lowe.

Current darts pundit and former two time world championship semi-finalist Mark Webster spoke to Merseysportlive, to give his views on the St Helens’ pair.

Smith will be looking to bounce back after a shock second round exit last year.

He fell short to Luke Woodhouse, losing by three sets to one.

Webster said: “With the defeat last year it was just one of them.

“It wasn’t like Michael was going through a bad patch, he just lost his first game in the event and I think it was just one of them.

“Michael’s such a hard worker, he practices all the time and he played on the Home Tour and some of his form there was frightening.

“He’s a good guy. And I’d love him to do well. If he’s going to win a major, I’d love him to do it at the World Championships. He’s going to have a good run, but he’s in a tough section.”

Similarly, Bunting will be also looking to improve on last year’s fourth round exit.

However, Webster predicts that he is unlikely to improve upon last year’s fourth round performance.

“I am really looking forward to him facing Andy Boulton and I think that could be a potential tie of the round.

“But I just don’t see either one of him getting by James Wade in the round after.

“I don’t see a massive run for Steven if I’m being honest.”