Michael Smith makes 2027 promise after Swiss Darts Trophy comeback

Michael Smith has promised to play a full tournament schedule in 2027 after recovering from 3-1 down to beat Rob Owen at the Swiss Darts Trophy.

The 2023 world champion won 6-4 in Basel on Friday, setting up a second-round meeting with Jermaine Wattimena.

Michael Smith sets out 2027 intentions

In comments reported by Sky Sports, Smith said: “I want to apologise and also make a promise in 2027 I will be playing 100 per cent of the tournaments.”

Basel is only his fourth European Tour appearance of the season.

Smith won five of the final six legs against Owen and finished with a 50 per cent checkout success rate, keeping his European Championship qualification hopes alive.

Wattimena awaits in Saturday’s afternoon session

Smith’s match against Wattimena is scheduled last in Saturday’s afternoon session, which begins at noon BST. Victory would take him into Sunday’s third round.

The evening session starts at 6pm, with Luke Humphries facing Kevin Doets and Michael van Gerwen taking on Mensur Suljovic.

Elsewhere on Friday, Raymond van Barneveld was eliminated while Dave Chisnall edged through.

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