James Wade has been a stalwart at the World Matchplay since making his debut in 2006.
The 41-year-old has reached the final an astonishing six times, lifting the iconic trophy in 2007.
His recent record is less inspiring, and the former champion has failed to reach the quarter-final in five years.
‘The Machine’s’ form has been poor for two years by his high standards and last year he exited the top 16 for the first time in 17 years.
He looked poised to miss out on Blackpool this year as he headed into the final two Pro Tour events before the cut-off outside of the qualification spots.
Wade battled, however, and after some good results and a bit of fortune in other matches, the Aldershot ace managed to reclaim the final qualification spot on the last day.
James Wade reacts to World Matchplay qualification
Wade had an anxious wait yesterday after exiting the tournament.
Cameron Menzies would have denied him a return to Blackpool if he lifted the title.
The Scotsman was in inspired form and eliminated World Champion Luke Humphries.
Wade, however, would have been relieved to see eventual champion Jonny Clayton end his run in the semi-final, and ‘The Machine’ took to X to react.
On the social media platform, he posted a picture of him lifting the trophy and said:
“Where it all began for me in 2007 – delighted to keep my Matchplay run going. Was under pressure this week and chuffed to have played some good darts when it mattered.”
Concerns remain despite qualification
Missing the Matchplay this month would have been a borderline disaster for Wade.
His absence would have encapsulated his slide down the rankings and compounded his recent woes on the oche.
Despite avoiding missing out on Blackpool, the concerns won’t disappear.
He produced some good results over the past two days, but his overall form is far away from what we’ve been accustomed to.
If he doesn’t rediscover the magic next week, an early exit could beckon.
That being said, the ten-time major winner has been written off before and has come out swinging.
If he can reproduce some of the displays we’ve seen over the past 48 hours, Wade can still be a danger in Blackpool.