Michael van Gerwen issues warning to Stephen Bunting ahead of PDC World Darts Championship clash

World No1 Michael van Gerwen has warned that Stephen Bunting will have to play the match of his life to have any chance of stopping him on his path to defending his PDC Darts World Championship title.

The Dutchman last night cruised to another victory at Alexandra Palace, as he swept aside Ricky Evans 4-0 — the same scoreline Bunting enjoyed in his earlier win over Jonny Clayton.

But Van Gerwen, who recorded 10 maximum 180s during the match, warned his post-Christmas opponent: “Stephen is playing quite well but he is going to have to play the darts of his life to beat me.”

Of his win over Evans, he said: “I wasn’t really in my comfort zone, but I’m happy to get such a big win. I had to work hard to keep myself concentrated, so I am pleased I did that. I think Ricky’s fast pace helped me and I enjoy playing matches like this, but I need to be better.”

Van Gerwen was flying back to the Netherlands today for Christmas with his family, but admitted he would

not enjoy the time with his wife and daughter before his next match on December 27. “I don’t like Christmas because of the darts,” he said. “I need to make sure my head is in the World Championships, that it’s 100 per cent focused on this.”

There is a shock absentee from the last 16 line-up, though, after James Wade was knocked out 4-2 by 55-year-old Steve Beaton.

Fallon Sherrock, who made history by becoming the first woman to beat a man at the event last week, reached the third round by beating world No11 Mensur Suljovic. The 25-year-old plays Chris Dobey on Friday.