Welsh darts star Gerwyn Price sparked controversy after England’s shock 8-4 second-round exit to Germany at the 2025 BetVictor World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt on June 14, claiming that world No. 1 Luke Humphries and No. 2 Luke Littler lacked a “team ethic.” Price, alongside teammate Jonny Clayton, reached the final for Wales, losing 10-9 to Northern Ireland, and used the opportunity to highlight what he perceived as England’s critical flaw in their highly anticipated debut partnership.
Price’s Critique
In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, Price asserted, “The only two players that didn’t turn up together, didn’t sit together, didn’t play as a team… they didn’t win their first game. You need to turn up together, practice together, sit together. It’s a team ethic and it didn’t show with England,” per Sky Sports. He emphasized the importance of camaraderie off-stage, contrasting England’s approach with Wales’ unity, noting, “We got to the final… it shows that as a team and as good friends, we can reach finals,” per Daily Record. Price’s comments, echoed on X by @DartsNews02 and @FraserSport1, stirred debate, with the latter quoting him saying, “I wanted them to do well but they were rubbish,” per.
Context of England’s Defeat
England, the pre-tournament favorites at 2/5 odds, were stunned by Germany’s Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko, who capitalized on a raucous home crowd and England’s 36% checkout rate (4/11 doubles) compared to Germany’s 62%, per Express. Littler, making his World Cup debut at 18, missed three darts at doubles early, allowing Pietreczko’s 106 checkout to shift momentum, while Humphries’ errant 122 attempt (hitting 25 instead of bullseye) compounded their woes, per The Standard. Sky Sports’ Wayne Mardle noted, “Littler and Humphries buckled under pressure,” a sentiment Price’s critique amplified, per Sky Sports.
Lack of Preparation
Price’s remarks pointed to England’s preparation flaws, particularly Humphries’ decision to forego joint practice with Littler. Humphries had said pre-tournament, “We’re both good enough individually,” a choice that backfired as their lack of doubles synergy was evident, per Express. Littler’s inexperience in team events and debut nerves further hindered their rhythm, per The Guardian. Price’s own success with Clayton, with whom he won titles in 2020 and 2023, underscored the value of a tight unit, as he noted, “You need that connection… it showed on the board,” per Daily Record.
Response and Sportsmanship
Germany’s Schindler and Pietreczko showed sportsmanship, criticizing the crowd’s booing of England, with Schindler saying, “Booing two great players like Luke and Luke isn’t right,” per Sky Sports. Humphries stayed to congratulate the Germans, while Littler’s quick stage exit drew some fan criticism on X, like @MJ_JJ061215, per. Price’s bluntness, while divisive, reflected his competitive edge, though he clarified, “I did want them to do well,” per Sky Sports.
Implications
The upset, England’s earliest World Cup exit since 2010, raises questions about Littler and Humphries’ partnership, especially with Littler’s struggles in Germany’s hostile crowds, per Daily Mail. Price’s comments highlight the unique demands of doubles events, where team chemistry is as crucial as individual skill. As Littler and Humphries shift focus to the World Matchplay (July 19–27, 2025), their ability to address these criticisms will be key, per PDC.
