Stephen Bunting vs Ryusei Azemoto

The opening round of the Bahrain Darts Masters on Thursday features a compelling matchup between the experienced Stephen Bunting and Japan's Ryusei Azemoto. Bunting, a seasoned competitor on the world stage, enters as the heavy favorite with average moneyline odds of 1.12, reflecting his consistent scoring power and finishing prowess. Azemoto, known for his steady rise in Asian darts, is priced at 5.72, presenting a significant challenge against a top-20 opponent in his first World Series appearance.

This contest offers a classic test of established quality against emerging talent. Bunting will look to control the tempo from the outset, leveraging his greater experience in these high-profile events. For Azemoto, the opportunity is to settle quickly and apply pressure, hoping to capitalize if the favorite shows any early rust. While the odds heavily favor 'The Bullet', the unique atmosphere of a World Series stage can sometimes level the playing field, making for an intriguing start to the tournament in Bahrain.