‘Crazy’ Luke Littler revelation leaves Phil Taylor stunned | Other | Sport

Darts legend Phil Taylor was left stunned when Luke Littler revealed his minimal practice plans ahead of his defence of the £1million World Darts Championships title. Littler, who is aiming to become only the fifth player to retain the Sid Waddell Trophy, will face Lithuanian Darius Labanauskas in the first round of the most lucrative event on the darts calendar. However, the 18-year-old from Warrington has shocked 16-time world champion Taylor by intending to do as little practice as possible before the tournament.

Speaking on SunSport’s Flight Club, Taylor said: “Luke hasn’t fully practised as he should. But if he gets past the first round, then I think he’ll fly. Luke has got to go in there knowing he can win. I was with him last week in Finland and he’s so confident. I said: ‘Are you not taking the practice board with you?’ He’s going down to London and staying in some rented house.

“He went: ‘No.’ Literally, he sat in the room in Finland, he never threw a dart all night, went on stage cold, hit 10 180s and had a 110 average. This is crazy. I’d never do that. But that’s his ability. He really is that natural. He’s brilliant.”

Taylor, who was relentless with his own practice during his 31-year professional darts career, believes the biggest challenge for players heading to Ally Pally is the mental aspect of the sport. “I’d start getting myself ready about August, mentally-wise. I’m thinking about the World Championship,” he elaborated.

“The mind is the biggest muscle in your body. Getting yourself ready early doors is the main thing. Get your mindset right. It’s about getting your rest in as well, because a lot of people over-practice. They do too much.

“Because obviously there’s £1m on the table this year. So everybody’s going to be doing 5-6 hours a day It’s too much. You’ve got to play well for three weeks now.

“Try and judge it. Never go in tired. Get yourself ready. Make sure your eyes aren’t tired.”