Luke Littler’s German Test in Round One of the Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool

Luke Littler’s German test in round one of the Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool

The draw has been made for round one of this year’s Betfred World Matchplay at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

Banana Skins in Blackpool: Inside the World Matchplay Draw

The wait is almost over. With the 32-player field confirmed following Tuesday’s frantic finale in Leicester, the draw for the Betfred World Matchplay was made on Thursday. As ever at the Winter Gardens, the bracket has thrown up more than a few contests that could define the tournament long before the business end arrives. Luke Littler heads to Blackpool as top seed and defending champion, chasing back-to-back titles that would make him just the…

Littler to face Springer in Betfred World Matchplay opener

Luke Littler will begin the defence of his Betfred World Matchplay title against Niko Springer, with the draw for the showpiece event of the summer now confirmed. The 2026 Betfred World Matchplay will take place from July 18-26 in Blackpool, as a star-studded 32-player field competes for the iconic Phil Taylor Trophy and a boosted top prize of £225,000. Littler is aiming to become only the fourth player to retain the coveted title, although he f…