LEEK READY TO REPLACE WHITLOCK AND SEIZE WORLD CUP CHANCE

ADAM LEEK will seize his World Cup chance despite knowing some fans still want Simon Whitlock in the Australian team.

World No.132 Leek is set to replace ‘The Wizard’, who was an ever present for his country, featuring in all 16 previous editions of the national tournament.

But Leek has earned the baggy yellow after securing a Tour Card at Q-School and is determined to shine on the big stage alongside Damon Heta. 

Leek accepts that he is stepping into the shoes of a legend and knows there will be spectators questioning the change.

He told Tungsten Tales: “I don’t think it’s fully sunk in yet that I’ll be playing for Australia. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do since I started taking darts seriously.

“I know there’ll be people who think he should still be playing, but at some point the younger players come through. I’m going to take the opportunity with both hands. 

“He’s such a good guy. I’ve met him and spoken to him, and it’s an honour to represent Australia and give it my best.”

The 27-year-old revealed the move across the world to live alone has been difficult, but says he’s received plenty of support from fellow players.

He added: “I guess because I’m just by myself in a way. It’s not the easiest thing, I must admit. 

“In terms of playing, I just treat it as a game of darts—something I enjoy. I don’t see it any differently. 

“The Australian Darts Association is doing a great job. The game is growing, and I think over the next five to ten years you’ll see more Aussies come over. 

“Damon Heta reached out and said he’s there if I need anything. 

“Now I’m sitting at the table with players like Chris Dobey, Joe Cullen, Jonny Clayton, Ryan Joyce and Nathan Aspinall. For an Aussie lad coming over to the UK, that’s pretty crazy.

“They’ve all offered advice—they’re good guys. So yeah, I’ve got some support there.” 

Leek has endured a tough start to life on the ProTour, with his best showing a run to the last 64 in the last two Players Championship events. 

But the Aussie insists results will come as he adapts to the circuit, builds confidence and finds his rhythm against the world’s best. 

He continued: “At first I was still settling in and dealing with jet lag, but after that I started playing some good darts. 

“I feel like I’ve run into some strong performances from opponents.

“Overall I’m happy. I think I’m steadily improving and will keep getting better. 

“It feels like everyone is playing well against me at the moment. If I keep playing the way I am, the results will come. I think I’ll just keep improving over time.”

Image by Taylor Lanning.