Stephen Bunting vs Raymond Smith Preview & Prediction | 2026 Grand Slam of Darts | Group Stage
by Trystan Pugh ·
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
Raymond Smith has already claimed the scalp of Stephen Bunting this year and now faces the Bullet on the opening day of the 2026 Grand Slam of Darts.
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How to watch on TV & online: UK – Sky Sports & Sky Go / USA – ESPN+
Stephen Bunting vs Raymond Smith prediction
Stephen Bunting has needed the back door to get to Wolverhampton this year, and his opening opponent has already beaten him on a big stage in 2026.
Australia's Raymond Smith, who qualified by winning the ANZ Premier League, dispatched Bunting 6-2 at the New Zealand Darts Masters in August.
Bunting, a semi-finalist here in 2023, came through the Tour Card Holder Qualifier with three ton-plus averages. His recent results have been decent rather than spectacular, though, including a 10-3 thrashing by Gerwyn Price in the European Championship quarter-finals.
Smith has been the dominant force on the Australian circuit and will not be overawed on his Grand Slam debut, but Bunting should still be favoured. We expect this to be closer than the bookies suggest.
Stephen Bunting vs Raymond Smith tip: Over 7.5 legs
