World Matchplay Day 5 Preview: Blockbuster Second Round Concludes in Blackpool

The 2026 World Matchplay reaches a critical juncture tonight at the Winter Gardens, as the remaining four spots in the quarter-finals are decided on Wednesday evening in Blackpool.

Following Tuesday night’s high-octane drama headlined by Luke Littler’s historic nine-darter, the bottom half of the draw takes center stage over the expanded best-of-21 legs format. From giant-killer Cameron Menzies aiming to capitalise on his shocking defeat of Luke Humphries, to a fiery showdown between Gerwyn Price and Rob Cross, Day 5 guarantees high-tension action in the Empress Ballroom.

Here is our full breakdown, analysis, and preview of all four Second Round ties taking place tonight.

Cameron Menzies vs. Ross Smith

Opening the session is a clash between two players who produced huge First Round statements.

Cameron Menzies caused the biggest shock of the tournament on Monday night, dumping out former champion and world number two Luke Humphries 10-7. Menzies was relentless on his scoring and held his composure under pressure, but his biggest challenge tonight will be backing up that career-defining win over a longer 21-leg distance.

Ross Smith was equally impressive in his opener, dispatching Kevin Doets 10-6. Known as one of the most prolific maximum-hitters on the PDC tour, ‘Smudger’ used his heavy treble-scoring to dictate the pace throughout.

Menzies has the momentum, but Smith’s raw 180-scoring power makes him a nightmare opponent over 21 legs. If Smith hits his stride on the trebles early, he holds the edge to halt Menzies’ fairytale run.

Gian van Veen vs. Wessel Nijman

An all-Dutch battle between two of the sport’s most exciting young talents takes center stage next as Gian van Veen collides with Wessel Nijman.

Newly ascended, World number two Gian van Veen showed maturity beyond his years in Round One, clinically seeing off Krzysztof Ratajski 10-6. Van Veen’s fluid throw and calm demeanor make him look right at home on the big stage.

Wessel Nijman proved why he has been the form player on the PDC ProTour this year, securing his first Winter Gardens victory with a polished 10-5 win over veteran Dave Chisnall. Nijman’s scoring capacity is staggering, and he showed no signs of debut nerves in his opener.

This has all the makings of a fast-paced, high-scoring duel between two future megastars. Nijman has the raw scoring to put anyone under pressure, but Van Veen’s superior big-stage experience and clinical doubling give him a slight advantage.

Gerwyn Price vs. Rob Cross

The marquee tie of the night sees 2021 finalist Gerwyn Price lock horns with 2019 World Matchplay champion Rob Cross.

Gerwyn Price showed tremendous grit in a thrilling First Round battle, overcoming a stubborn Martin Schindler 11-9 in overtime. ‘The Iceman’ dug deep when the pressure intensified, using his trademark intensity to push over the finish line.

Rob Cross enters Wednesday night fresh off one of the most dominant performances of Round One, dismantling Danny Noppert 10-3. ‘Voltage’ was in complete control from the opening leg, showing the same clinical finishing that saw him lift the Phil Taylor Trophy seven years ago.

A mouthwatering contest between two elite major winners. Cross enters fresher after a smooth opening win, but Price thrives in hostile, tight encounters. Expect a close battle that could go well past 15 legs.

James Wade vs. Ryan Searle

Closing out Wednesday evening is a battle between 2007 champion James Wade and high-scoring Ryan Searle.

James Wade brought all his trademark Blackpool pedigree to the stage on Sunday, seeing off Jermaine Wattimena 10-7. Making his 21st consecutive Matchplay appearance, ‘The Machine’ remains one of the hardest players to break down over a longer distance due to his lethal cover-shooting.

Ryan Searle produced a solid display to defeat William O’Connor 10-6 in his opener. ‘Heavy Metal’ pounded the treble 20 bed regularly and will need that heavy scoring power to break through Wade’s defensive consistency.

Preview Verdict: Searle undoubtedly has the higher scoring ceiling, but Wade is a master of grinding down heavy scorers in Blackpool. If Searle’s doubling stays sharp, he can progress, but Wade will punish every minor slip-up.