James Wade sent a message to Luke Littler and Luke Humphries (Image: Darts Now / Getty)
James Wade has labelled and as “quite lazy” following his first-round win at the World Masters.
The Machine edged a five-set thriller against Mike De Decker in Milton Keynes to book his spot in the last-16 against reigning world champion Littler.
It’s a welcome return to winning ways for Wade, who was dumped out of the recent in his opening match.
The former Masters winner averaged 92 during his victory over De Decker and claimed during the post-match debrief he’s still got what it takes to win major TV titles.
When quizzed on his form and the quality of the current field, Wade said: “I still think it’s laughable that people don’t think I can win things… I still think I’ll win TV majors and I don’t see why not.
“After tonight’s performance not great. I don’t believe anyone is amazing apart from the Luke [Littler] and the Luke [Humphries].
“And after that, they could be quite lazy, they’re not Phil Taylors they’re not Michael van Gerwens at their best.
“But there are gaps in the market and it is what it is.”
His credentials will be put to the test on Saturday evening when he comes up against Littler in the last-16. On the match-up, Wade said: “I don’t really care who I play.
Read more…
Luke Littler is competing at the World Masters for the first time (Image: Getty)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“I know if I play well, I do well. I think that’s a thing for the press and the crowd. I genuinely put my hand on my heart and don’t care who I play.”
Wade will have to improve his game in order to progress into the next round, given Littler looked typically imperious during his opener against Andy Baetens.
The 18-year-old dropped just one leg across the three sets, averaged well over a ton and hit two 180s.
On his win against the Belgian, Littler said: “It’s first to two legs, dead quick, on and off.
Don’t miss… [READ] [DARTS] [NEWS]
“I settled very quickly. Obviously, the first three darts were at 180, so I couldn’t ask for much better. I was happy with the performance overall.”
Littler added: “I’d love to [win the World Masters trophy], but there’s still a very strong field. Tomorrow against James Wade won’t be an easy task.
“I’ll have to play like I did today tomorrow [Saturday].”
Wade and Littler lock horns during the evening session of Saturday’s World Masters action.