Smith Ends Bunting’s Run at New Zealand Darts Masters
Raymond Smith defeats third seed Stephen Bunting 6-2 in Auckland, with Adam Leek also progressing after surviving match darts.
Raymond Smith has ended Stephen Bunting’s campaign at the New Zealand Darts Masters, securing a 6-2 victory over the third seed in Auckland. Smith, who has not competed on a PDC stage for eight years, maintained an average of 99.81 and converted 86 per cent of his doubles, closing out the match with a 124 checkout on the bullseye.
Smith credited the PDC’s investment in the Oceanic region for his performance, citing initiatives such as the ADA, DPNZ, and ANZ Premier League as key factors in preparing players for high-level competition. His win marks a significant return to form for the Australian, who described the result as feeling "pretty awesome" after nearly a decade away from the tour.
The victory sets up a quarter-final clash with fellow Australian Adam Leek. Leek advanced to the last eight after surviving six match darts against Ross Smith, ultimately winning in a dramatic last-leg decider on his World Series of Darts debut.
Other notable first-round results saw top seed Gian van Veen defeat New Zealand World Cup star Jonny Tata 6-1, while 2022 champion Gerwyn Price breezed past Mark Cleaver 6-1. Welshman Jonny Clayton overturned a 4-2 deficit to beat home favourite Haupai Puha 6-5, setting up a quarter-final tie against van Veen.
The quarter-final lineup is now complete, with James Wade facing Josh Rock and Gerwyn Price taking on Damon Heta, who came from behind to defeat Ben Robb 6-4. The PDC’s focus on the region continues as the tour prepares for the BoyleSports World Grand Prix, scheduled for September 28 to October 4, where defending champion Luke Littler will look to retain his title.
