Fans looking to catch the action at the New Zealand Darts Masters 2024 need to arrive early on Friday. The time difference means that the tournament in the New Zealand city of Hamilton kicks off at 9:00 a.m. Dutch time.
The Globox Arena in Hamilton has been the host of New Zealand’s World Series tournament for several years now. In 2019, Michael van Gerwen emerged victorious by beating Raymond van Barneveld 8-1 in the final. Due to the pandemic, the event did not take place in 2020 and 2021, but it made a comeback in 2022 with Gerwyn Price claiming the title. In 2023, Rob Cross took home the championship after defeating Nathan Aspinall 8-7 in the final.
The schedule for the New Zealand Darts Masters 2024 has some exciting matchups lined up. Peter Wright will face off against Daniel Snookes in the first match on Friday morning. Wright, who had a good performance at the Australian Darts Masters last week, is looking to continue his form. Snookes, a relatively unknown player, is making his debut on the New Zealand darts scene this year.
Dimitri van den Bergh will take on Mark Cleaver in another match. Van den Bergh, a seasoned World Series player, has had success in the past, winning titles in 2022. Cleaver, on the other hand, has minimal experience on the World Series circuit.
Former world champion Michael Smith will go head-to-head with Jeremy Fagg in the first round. Smith, a three-time World Series winner, has a strong record in these tournaments. His opponent, Fagg, is a regular on the Australian darts circuit.
Luke Humphries, despite his recent television success, is still chasing his first World Series title. He will face Kayden Milne in his opening match. Milne, a young player, has had some success in the past at the World Series.
Gerwyn Price, fresh off a win at the Australian Darts Masters, will take on Ben Robb. Robb, a well-known New Zealand player, has experience on the big stage.
Defending champion Rob Cross will play Haupai Puha in a rematch of their recent encounter in Australia. Cross has had a strong season on the World Series circuit, while Puha will be looking to upset the champion.
Luke Littler, the current leader in the World Series Order of Merit, will face Jonny Tata. Littler has been in fine form this season, while Tata will be aiming to cause an upset.
The first round will conclude with a match between Australians Damon Heta and Simon Whitlock. Heta, a World Series winner, will take on Whitlock, who is looking to recapture his past form.
With a packed schedule on Friday, darts fans are in for a treat at the New Zealand Darts Masters 2024. Make sure to tune in early for all the action!
