'I really enjoy going up to Blackpool and I always fancy my chances' – Rob Cross has high hopes for World Matchplay

Tom Hill: You have recently taken a break from darts before a busy few months. Was that always part of the plan for this year, and what has it done for you?
Rob Cross: Yes, I needed to recharge my batteries so I have had a nice break with my wife and kids. I am refreshed and ready for the busy end of the season.

TH: Was ring-rust to blame for the early exit at last month's US Masters?
RC: To be honest I had hardly practised for three weeks leading up to New York, so, yes, I was just not sharp enough early doors and Danny’s [Lauby] confidence grew and grew and he deserved the win.

TH: While you didn't manage to make the playoffs in this year's Premier League, you still have had some real success by winning the Dutch Masters and Players Championship. How would you assess your form this year?
RC: I’ve played some good stuff this year. I’m happy with a lot of how I’ve played and I’m looking forward to the business end of the year. I’m ready to win something else. I’ve got the taste for it.

TH: It won't be long before all eyes will be on the third and final Triple Crown event, the World Matchplay in Blackpool. How much do you look forward to the tournament and is it an arena that you relish visiting?
RC: I always look forward to the Matchplay. It’s one of the best tournaments in the calendar and the venue is superb.  I really enjoy going up to Blackpool and I always fancy my chances.

TH: You reached the quarter-finals last year; what did you learn from that experience that can help you this time around?
RC: I did play well up to that point in the tournament but, again, I was too slow out the traps. Michael [Smith] got his nose in front and I left myself too much to do at the end of the match.

Luke Littler was a surprise early casualty at the World Cup of Darts alongside his England teammate Luke HumphriesCredit: Getty Images

TH: A lot has been said about England's recent display at the World Cup of Darts. Do you think the criticism of Luke Littler and Luke Humphries was harsh or justified?
RC: I think it’s harsh. The only people who know how to get the best out of those players are themselves. Luke Littler is where he is because he has his way of doing things and the same for Luke Humphries. Keeping your rhythm in that tournament is hard – you’re waiting for three other people to throw before you do. It’s a learning experience for them both.

TH: It seems like anything Littler does at the minute makes the headlines. He is still young and learning to handle the spotlight. As a fellow pro, is this becoming tiresome or is the publicity still good for the sport?
RC: I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – more eyes on the sport is fantastic, whether it’s Luke Littler getting the headlines, or Stephen Bunting, whoever. It’s bringing more people into the game and that can only be a good thing for all involved.

TH: The sport seems to be thriving at the minute with some of the world's best players meeting on a regular basis in big finals. Have you got any specific goals in mind for the rest of the campaign and how confident are you in achieving those goals?
RC: Yes, I’ve got some goals – but I’ll be keeping them close to my chest! I just want to keep performing and playing as much as I can, and hopefully bring a few more trophies home.

TH: You are heading back to the Target Sports Stars Fishing Championship later this month. How excited are you?
RC: I’m really looking forward to it. It’s always a really good day out, raising a load of money for some important charities with The Willow Foundation and Alex TLC. Hopefully I'll catch some big fish, too.

TH: Plenty of big names from the world of sports will be there. How competitive do you expect the day to be and what do you make of your chances?
RC: It’s always competitive. At the start everyone is laughing and joking, but you can see when that first claxon goes that everyone wants to win. There’s a reason we’re all at the top of our games, and it’s the competitive side.

Rob was talking to the Racing Post ahead of the Target Sports Star Fishing Championship, which will be held again at Tunnel Barn Fishery in Warwickshire on July 29. Now in its 13th year, 32 sportsmen and women will cast their rods to raise funds for various charities. This year’s beneficiaries include The Willow Foundation, Haven House Hospice and St Francis Hospice. As well as Rob, sporting stars such as Luke Littler, Barry Hearn, Tony Bellew, Steve Davis, Johnny Fisher, Hayley Turner and George Boughey will be in attendance this year. For more information on the event, visit jbdsportsagents.co.uk. 

Read more on the World Matchplay:

Betfred World Matchplay winner predictions: Steve Davies has tips at 8-1 and 28-1 

Saturday's Betfred World Matchplay match predictions: Van Veen can push Humphries all the way 

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