Ross Smith vs Rusty-Jake Rodriguez Preview & Prediction | 2026 Grand Slam of Darts | Group Stage

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In-form Ross Smith takes to the Grand Slam of Darts stage against surprise qualifier Rusty-Jake Rodriguez.

Start date/time: 14 November 2026 at 8:15 pm

How to watch on TV & online: UK – Sky Sports & Sky Go / USA – ESPN+

Ross Smith vs Rusty-Jake Rodriguez prediction

Ross Smith arrives in Wolverhampton as the man of the moment, having won two major titles in the space of five weeks.

Smith beat Gerwyn Price to win the World Series Finals in September, then beat Martin Schindler to win the European Championship the following month, so hopes are high that he can go deep in Wolverhampton.

Rusty-Jake Rodriguez, whose only previous Grand Slam appearance in 2021 ended without a win, somewhat surprisingly came through the Tour Card Holder Qualifier. Few would have expected the Austrian to emerge from the field given that he has only won twice on the Players Championship circuit all year.

Smith is an obvious pick here, and we expect him to cover a decent handicap.

Ross Smith vs Rusty-Jake Rodriguez tip: Ross Smith -3.5 legs