Round three defeat for Dave Chisnall in Germany

Chisnall exited the Interwetten European Darts Grand Prix in Sindelfingen, Germany, after losing in the opening stage of Sunday’s finals day.

He was beaten 6-1 by Polish player Krzysztof Ratajski, currently ranked 19th on the PDC’s world list.

Chisnall was looking for a third Tour title of 2023 after victories in the Baltic Sea Darts Open and Dutch Darts Championship – as well as defeat in the final of the Gambrinus Czech Darts Open.

Seeded three in Sindelfingen, the 42-year-old had entered proceedings in Saturday’s second round.

That saw him face Pascal Rupprecht, who had come from 5-4 down to beat Christian Kist 6-5 in their round one meeting on Friday afternoon.

Chisnall proved too strong for the German youngster, however, following up a fifth 180 with a 136 checkout to wrap up victory in style.

For his part, Ratajski was beaten in the last eight as he went down 6-4 to the eventual champion, Rob Cross.

Having seen off Ross Smith in the semi-final, Cross collected a maiden Tour title with an 8-6 defeat of Luke Humphries in the final.

Victory also meant Cross edged out Humphries to partner Michael Smith in the England team for this year’s World Cup.

Cross said afterwards: “I’m just so glad that I’ve won a European Tour title, I’ve been striving to win one of these for six years.

“I have got that monkey off my back now. I’ve been playing well for a little while, so I can move forward now.

“I’m playing some of the best darts I’ve ever played. I’m also probably the happiest I’ve been in life for quite a while, and that’s really important for me. I’m in a really good place.

“I’m happy to be at the World Cup. I wanted to be there, but so did Luke, so commiserations to him. What a player he is. He’s quality.”

The next Tour event runs from June 30 to July 2 with the Interwetten European Darts Matchplay taking place in Trier, Germany.