Luke Littler has dismissed claims that Mensur Suljovic cheated during his match against Joe Cullen, insisting the Austrian's slow style is simply his natural approach. The 17-year-old faces Suljovic in the third round of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace on Thursday.
Suljovic's victory over Cullen on Sunday sparked controversy when the Englishman accused his opponent of deliberately slowing down the game. However, Littler, who beat David Davies in his second-round match, said: 'No, it's not cheating. That's just how he plays. He flicks his flight and he's doing it until he feels settled.'
The teenager, known as 'The Nuke', acknowledged he may need to adapt if Suljovic tries to disrupt his rhythm. 'If he does try to slow it down a little bit, then obviously I've got to make a slow approach and try to get into the game as quickly as possible,' he said.
Littler revealed Suljovic had messaged him before the tournament, saying: 'See you in round three, good luck.' The world number two responded: 'Hopefully, we can have a good game.' He added that he expects a tough contest but will not change his preparation, saying: 'I'll just practice how I do and expect the worst.'
Despite the festive period, Littler remains focused on his title defence. 'We never change the Christmas dinner. It's a chill-out day. Won't be playing many darts,' he said. 'When it comes to Boxing Day, whether I'm playing on the 27th or 28th, I'll put in a little bit of practice.'
