In-form Nicholson offers best World Grand Prix value
Published:Adrian Lewis became the latest high-profile casualty from the World Grand Prix of darts, crashing out at the hands of hot prospect Michael Van Gerwen.
Paul Nicholson could prove the ultimate benefactor by his exit though, with the Australian 11/8 to advance to the semi-final stage.
In 8/15 Wes Newton he faces a daunting challenge, but should he replicate his battling display opposing Colin Osborne, Nicholson will have every chance of progression.
He eventually triumphed 3-1 en route to this stage, and will see this competition as his best chance yet to claim a major PDC crown.
Nicholson’s clash with Newton is one of a number of intriguing quarter-final fixtures meanwhile, with a mouth-watering night of darts in prospect in Ireland.
8/13 Justin Pipe will have to be at his best to see off the in-form Brendan Dolan, who has surprised many with his displays so far at the tournament.
Pipe has drawn many plaudits throughout the competition too though, and should he perform to the best of his ability, should have too much class for his Northern Irish opponent.
Elsewhere, the aforementioned Van Gerwen will hope to maintain his focus after conquering tournament favourite Lewis to reach the quarter-final stage.
Van Gerwen is on a high following his surprise win, and the 23-year-old will be fancied by many to see off Andy Hamilton at 4/6.
His 11/10 opponent will be no pushover, but his laboured showing in besting Steve Beaton indicates he could fall at the hands of his up-and-coming counterpart.
And the final match of the night will see Robert Thornton enter as 4/6 favourite, in the aftermath of his giant-killing exploits in the event so far.
Thornton overcame ten-time Grand Prix winner Phil Taylor to reach this stage, and will therefore hold no fears against 11/10 Mervyn King.
With this already Thornton’s best Grand Prix showing to date, he will be eager to ensure his tournament doesn’t end at the quarter-final stage.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
