Stephen Bunting Eyes World Cup Spot Amid Luke Littler Doubts
Stephen Bunting has expressed his readiness to step into the England squad for the 2025 World Cup of Darts if Luke Littler opts out. Littler, who was expected to partner reigning world champion Luke Humphries, has cast uncertainty over his participation following a cryptic Instagram post after his semi-final loss at the German Darts Grand Prix.
In the post, Littler wrote: “Shouldn’t have been in Munich but had to play anyway, next one in Germany for me is Dortmund and I am glad to say that,” hinting at a potential absence from the World Cup, set for June 12 in Frankfurt.
The teenager has faced consistent boos from German crowds, a factor that may influence his decision. Bunting believes this opens the door for him: “He’s put a few posts on socials about not going back to Germany. If that’s true, I’m in the World Cup, aren’t I?”
Bunting also addressed the ongoing football-related tensions between himself and Littler. Ahead of Premier League Darts night in Liverpool, Bunting, a Liverpool supporter, reflected on Littler’s past taunts as a Manchester United fan: “He mocked us last year after Everton beat us 2-0—people don’t forget that.”
He continued, “He might get a few boos in Liverpool, especially after what happened in Germany. But sometimes, you bring that on yourself.”
Despite football rivalries, Bunting stressed his commitment to the sport and the fans: “I try to give back, whether on TikTok or YouTube. Some people support me for darts, not just football.”
Littler, meanwhile, has admitted the boos have affected him: “I just don’t get it. I was flying in Hildesheim until the crowd turned, and I lost. It’s something we all deal with.”
With doubts over Littler’s participation, Bunting is prepared to step up and represent England alongside Humphries as they look to defend their 2024 title.
