Raymond Smith sets record average to win ANZ Premier League opener

Raymond Smith delivered a record-breaking performance during the opening night of the 2026 ANZ Premier League in Canberra. Smith set a new tournament record with a 108.88 average, including five 180s, during his 5-3 semi-final victory over Mal Cumming.

In the other semi-final, Ben Robb defeated the reigning champion Simon Whitlock 5-3. Robb had previously secured a 5-0 whitewash against Jonny Tata. Smith ultimately won the night's featured final against Robb with a 5-1 scoreline, closing out the last three legs in 40 darts.

Other results from the night included Mal Cumming's debut victory over Tim Pusey and Simon Whitlock's last-leg win against Joe Comito in the quarter-finals.