James Wade vs Ryan Searle Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Matchplay | Second Round
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James Wade and Ryan Searle face each other for the first time since 2024 as the English pair battle it out for a place in the last eight of the 2026 World Matchplay.
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – ESPN
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – ESPN+
James Wade vs Ryan Searle prediction
James Wade overcame Jermaine Wattimena's rapid pace in the first round, recording a 10-7 victory over the Dutchman as he began his quest for a second World Matchplay title, 19 years after his only previous success in Blackpool.
The Machine called his own performance "rubbish" despite averaging north of 96 and finishing over 40% of his double attempts - an ominous sign for Ryan Searle.
Searle recovered from a mid-match wobble to overcome William O'Connor 10-6 on Sunday, and he is now one match away from his second career quarter-final at Winter Gardens.
It is over two years since these two players met in competition, while this is the first time the pair have locked horns at a major tournament. Former champion Wade has reached the final seven times in Blackpool, most recently last year, and knows how to get the job done on the TV stage. We fancy him for the job.
James Wade vs Ryan Searle tip: James Wade to win
