Cameron Menzies forced to abandon darts match and get medical help | Other | Sport
Cameron Menzies has withdrawn from the World Matchplay on medical grounds. Menzies had to be helped off the stage to undergo medical attention during his match against Ross Smith.
The pair were battling for a place in the third round of the competition when worrying scenes occurred at Winter Gardens. However, a statement from the PDC shortly before 7:45pm on Wednesday night confirmed Menzies’ withdrawal from the competition, resulting in Smith’s progression to the quarter-finals. The statement read: “Cameron Menzies is unable to continue his Round Two clash after being taken unwell. Ross Smith progresses to the quarter-finals as a result. The next match between Gian van Veen and Wessel Nijman will start shortly.”
While in a separate update, Sky Sports’ Emma Paton revealed: “Cameron Menzies was taken ill when he was 2-1 up against Ross Smith. He has been cleared by medics. He is okay, but he will play no further part in tonight’s action.”
The PDC later confirmed more on what happened with Menzies and shared details of his condition, saying: “Cameron Menzies was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening.
“Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint. Following an assessment by the on-site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation.
“We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon.”
Menzies held a 2-1 lead when he appeared to start to struggle, and the fourth leg of the game was soon put on hold as the 37-year-old started to look in discomfort.
Speaking on commentary at the time, Sky Sports commentator Rod Studd said: “Worrying scenes here. Ross Smith has rushed to his aid, as have the referees. He’s gone off stage and you can only assume he’s going off to receive some medical attention.”
Before pundit Mark Webster said: “Smith was obviously concerned. He’ll be offering his support.
“While the medics are seeing to Cameron, he’s got to stay on the practice board. But ultimately it’s just about hoping that Cameron is okay at the minute.”
Paton then confirmed in a fresh update: “We understand that Cameron Menzies is still being assessed, but he is conscious, he is sat up and he is now talking to his partner.”
With Glen Durrant adding: “I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it’s all about Cameron Menzies. He’s in tip top form at the moment. It’s a real tough one to take.”
After Menzies’ withdrawal the night’s second match – Gian van Veen against Wessel Nijman – was bought forward.
