Michael Smith vs Lisa Ashton Preview & Prediction | 2025-26 PDC World Darts Championship | First Round
It has been a difficult year for Michael Smith and he faces plenty of scrutiny in the opening round at Ally Pally as he comes up against Lisa Ashton
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – Peacock
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Peacock Premium
Michael Smith vs Lisa Ashton prediction
Bully Boy Michael Smith has had a challenging 2025 and it will be interesting to see how he fares in the PDC World Darts Championships. He has recently opened up about his struggles with arthritis in his throwing wrist and his feet, which has increasingly caused him issues.
He will have to overcome those issues both physically and mentally if he is to go far at Ally Pally but based on this year, it is hard to have too much confidence in him. He has lost in the first round in 19 tournaments this year and the 2023 champion could well go title-less for the first time since 2019 unless he somehow produces some magic in the Palace.
He comes up against Lisa Ashton who will be hoping to get her first-ever win in this tournament at the fifth time of asking.
The 55-year-old is enjoying something of an Indian summer having achieved some excellent results this year after a relatively barren five years based on her high standards. She won the Women’s World Matchplay beating Beau Greaves and then Fallon Sherrock in the final. She also took Gian van Veen to a deciding leg in the Grand Slam of Darts before ultimately losing, showing she is capable of competing against the men.
It will be interesting to see how this match develops but for all the pressure and challenges Smith is facing, he should surely have too much for Ashton.
There is every chance Ashton wins a set, but we expect Bully Boy to ultimately get the win and he should also dominate the 180 tally for extra value.
Michael Smith vs Lisa Ashton tip: Michael Smith to win and achieves most 180s (1/3)
