Former finalist Simon Whitlock was cut across the board to a top priced 20/1 for the Ladbrokes World Darts Championship after opening his campaign with an ultra impressive victory last night.
The Australian, known as the Wizard of Oz, lost just one leg as he whitewashed Dennis Smith 3-0 in sets in a dazzling display which left his opponent spellbound.
Whitlock averaged more than 105 – the best of the tournament so far – and had his odds cut from 40/1 to just 20s to go on and land the coveted prize.
Phil “The Power” Taylor remains the red-hot favourite at 5/6 to win his 16th world title.