Dave Chisnall is in danger of missing the World Matchplay for the first time since joining the PDC, with only two qualifying events left before the Blackpool field is settled. The latest race picture has Chisnall just outside the ProTour qualification places ahead of the Leicester double-header on July 6-7, making the closing ProTour weekend decisive for his Blackpool hopes.
The 45-year-old has played every World Matchplay since 2011, but that run is now under serious pressure. According to the latest World Matchplay race update, Damon Heta currently holds the 16th and final ProTour place, with Chisnall £5,000-plus adrift in 17th.
Chisnall, Smith And Wright Facing Blackpool Squeeze
The wider picture is just as stark. Michael Smith is also outside the projected field, while Peter Wright and Dimitri Van den Bergh are described as out of contention. It leaves several established names relying on late Leicester runs while newer ProTour forces move into the frame.
Luke Woodhouse leads the ProTour route, with Kevin Doets, Niels Zonneveld and William O’Connor among those in position to qualify. Rob Cross has also hauled himself into the provisional list after a recent upturn, adding another layer to a race that now looks like a genuine changing of the guard before the Winter Gardens cut-off.
