Smith books third major semi-final before revealing sauna plans

ROSS SMITH turned up the heat to sink Josh Rock and now he is planning to do the same in the SAUNA.

The world No14 reached the THIRD major semi-final of his career with a 10-7 victory over Rock at the World Series of Darts Finals in Amsterdam.

Smith, 37, averaged 97.54 and hit five 180s to set up a tie with either Gian van Veen or Dirk van Duijvenbode.

Smudger is looking to add another major title to his 2022 European Championship triumph.

He said: “To be fair, me and Josh, it was really nip and tuck, especially the first half of the game.

“I think the 130 I took out on the bull was a real crucial moment. There are turning points in games and I probably did a Wadey, hitting things at the right time.

“I do believe I can win the title without a shadow of a doubt. At the same time, I take each game as it comes.

“I won’t look too far ahead. There is no way. I have made those mistakes far too many times.

“At the end of the day, you can only beat the player in front of you.

“Don’t make it an obstacle. I love being here and it is a privilege.”

Smith has already decided how he plans to unwind before returning to the AFAS Live tonight to face Dutch opposition.

He added: “I will go back to my room now and I might have a little bite to eat. I might even have a little sauna and treat myself.

“It don’t matter to me who I play, even if it is one of the Dutch lads. The crowd are fantastic.

“Let the best man win. I quite like the fact that I go up there sometimes and the crowd are on the other guy’s side.

“I sing along to their songs and everything. It relaxes me. It puts pressure when they are behind me.

“I don’t mind it.”

Words: Aaron Nijjar