Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler delivered a breathtaking performance to defeat Rob Cross in an electrifying Premier League Darts quarter-final on Night 11 in Rotterdam, clinching victory with a spectacular 145 checkout. The 18-year-old, known as “The Nuke,” defied Cross’ stellar 110 average to win 6-5 in a dramatic deciding leg, surviving a match dart from the 2018 world champion.
The match was a rollercoaster of high-octane darts. Littler, averaging over 113, traded 180s with Cross and took out a crucial 122 to regain the lead midway through. With the score tied at 2-2, Littler’s 96 finish in an 11-darter showcased his composure under pressure. Cross, relentless with his scoring, responded with clinical checkouts, including an 87 on double 14, keeping the contest neck-and-neck.
In the final leg, Cross missed a dart at double 6 for a 126 checkout, leaving the door open. Littler seized the moment, nailing a sensational 145 finish—treble 20, treble 15, double 20—to spark wild celebrations at Rotterdam Ahoy. The victory solidified Littler’s dominance in the 2025 Premier League, edging him closer to a play-off spot.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Littler said, “Rob pushed me all the way, but that 145 felt amazing. I’m just enjoying every moment out there.” Cross, gracious in defeat, praised Littler’s “unbelievable” finishing. The win adds to Littler’s growing legend, following his previous ton-plus heroics against Cross, including a 167, 127, and 164 in Nottingham.
