Luke Littler kicks off his PDC World Darts Championship title defence tonight at Alexandra Palace, taking on Lithuania's top player Darius Labanauskas in what promises to be a fascinating opening night clash.
The 18-year-old sensation, who made history as the youngest world champion ever after defeating Michael van Gerwen in last year's final, arrives at Ally Pally as the world number one and top seed.
Littler's form has been absolutely brilliant lately, with a 13-match winning streak stretching back to October.
Their first-round encounter is scheduled for 9pm as the third match of Thursday's evening session.
Darius Labanauskas takes on Luke Littler with the whole of Lithuania supporting him
|PA
So who exactly is Labanauskas? The 49-year-old Lithuanian is making his seventh appearance at the PDC World Championship, though he currently sits at 95th in the rankings.
His best run at Ally Pally came back in 2020 when he reached the quarter-finals, an impressive achievement that saw him face then-defending champion Michael van Gerwen.
However, last year's tournament didn't go to plan at all, with Ryan Joyce knocking him out in the opening round.
Despite the ranking gap between himself and Littler, Labanauskas brings plenty of experience to tonight's encounter.
Labanauskas has produced some memorable moments on the big stage, including a stunning nine-dart finish at Alexandra Palace against Mike De Decker back in 2022.
Darius Labanauskas lit up the Ally Pally three years ago when he hit a nine-darter
|PA
He's also a trailblazer for Lithuanian darts, becoming the first player from his country to reach a PDC ranking final when he faced Glen Durrant at Players Championship 15 in 2019.
Before joining the PDC circuit, he enjoyed considerable success in the BDO, reaching the quarter-finals at their World Championship in 2017 where he lost to eventual winner Glen Durrant.
He was also ranked world number one in the WDF during 2015 and 2016.
Luke Littler is the hot favourite to reclaim his World Championship crown
|PA
Away from the oche, Labanauskas has a rather unusual background that sets him apart from most professional darts players.
The Lithuanian previously worked as a potter, and he's credited that experience with helping develop the calmness and patience he displays during matches.
It's a lovely connection when you think about it – the steady hands and focus required for crafting pottery translating perfectly to the precision needed at the dartboard.
He lives in Garliava, Lithuania, where he's given back to his local community by offering free darts lessons to both beginners and more advanced players looking to improve their game.