Darts: Dudbridge dispatches champion Part

Mark Dudbridge celebrated the biggest win of his career tonight as he sent the defending champion, John Part, out the World Championship last night.

Part defeated the 10-time champion Phil Taylor in one of the most memorable finals at the Circus Tavern 12 months ago, but the Canadian was left deflated as Dudbridge edged the final-set decider 5-3 in legs to take his place in the fourth round.

Part made a confident start and looked favourite to take the opening set before Dudbridge nailed double 16 and 20 to snatch it from his grasp. The Bristol thrower, who defeated the talented newcomer Steven Smith in the second round, also took the second set with a 112 checkout. It meant Dudbridge had hit six out of eight attempts at doubles.

Part responded by taking the third set 3-0, and he dropped only one leg in the fourth as he levelled the match by hitting double seven.

Dudbridge opened the fifth set with a 122 checkout before edging it 3-2, but Part took the next 3-1. In the deciding set, six high-class legs of darts left the pair level, but Dudbridge hit double top twice to unleash the shock of the tournament.