Josh Rock vs Stephen Bunting Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Matchplay | Second Round
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Josh Rock and Stephen Bunting meet for the fourth time in 2026, with the pair having locked horns twice in the Premier League as well as the UK Open.
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – ESPN
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – ESPN+
Josh Rock vs Stephen Bunting prediction
The 2026 World Matchplay began with Josh Rock comfortably beating Luke Woodhouse 10-4, with the Northern Irishman benefitting massively from his opponent's wastefulness on the outer ring.
Rock averaged just 90.42 in that victory, and you have to think a similar level of performance here will be be punished by Stephen Bunting, who was pushed all the way in his own opener.
The Bullet is somewhat fortunate to be here though, given that Niels Zonneveld missed three match darts against him. Bunting eventually came through 13-12 and will now be eyeing up a third career quarter-final at the World Matchplay.
Rock didn't quite look himself in the first round, and Bunting looks the marginal favourite here. If you're not convinced, over 18.5 legs is an alternative market to consider as this one is unlikely to be one-sided either way.
Josh Rock vs Stephen Bunting tip: Stephen Bunting to win
