Wade reckons rivals are “stuffed” after record-breaking Aussie display

JAMES WADE reckons his rivals are “stuffed” after producing a record-breaking display at the Australian Darts Masters.

The world No6 smashed in a stunning 112.73 average to whitewash Tim Pusey 6-0 in the opening round in Wollongong.

Wade, 43, produced his best-ever performance on the World Series circuit and the second highest average ever recorded in Australia.

The Aldershot slinger believes he can cause serious damage if he manages to reproduce that level against Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals.

He said: “It felt amazing. Sometimes it is a bit of how the player is behaving, how the player is playing and how the crowd are playing.

“Everything just fell into my hands there and I was lucky to hit a few trebles along the way, which sealed the deal.

“It was quite easy. Sometimes it is really, really hard. I think if he had hit a double in the second leg, it might not have been as plain sailing.

“I might have played better. But in my honest opinion, if he hit the double in the second leg, I reckon it would have been a bit nitty gritty.

“The World Series is a really hard one to get up for. We don’t get time to prepare or throw darts consistently like we would in the UK or Europe.

“That is no secret. But it is lovely to be here. I have two very best friends. I have brought Lee with me this year.

“We are having a very good time. Lee is seeing a different part of the world. I am enjoying what he is seeing.

“I am probably the most guilty person of it. I forget how lucky I am to do what I do. I always have a little chip on my shoulder.

“That is how I am. You are never going to change me. I have been doing this for 23 years. I am just happy to be here.

“I am playing alright. I am not always here to make the numbers up. But I am amongst some great players.

“If I replicate that everyone is stuffed, aren’t they.”

The Machine has been in superb form this year, reaching at least the quarter-finals at the last three major events, including the UK Open final.

Wade has also added silverware to his impressive campaign, winning Players Championship One.

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning