Australia captain Simon Whitlock has consoled his teammate Damon Heta after a disappointing start to the World Cup of Darts.
The 2022 champions survived four match darts in their opener against Japan, before squeezing past Hong Kong last night.
Australia’s tournament average is a mere 81.76 and they must improve to repeat their feat two years ago.
World Number 11 Damon Heta has been disheartened by his own personal performances and had to be consoled by his experienced partner.
Whitlock tries to instil confidence in Heta
Hong Kong had the ‘Aussies’ in trouble in the decisive tie last night.
Both Heta and Whitlock went to the well with a ton-plus finish apiece which bailed out the men from ‘Down Under’.
Speaking to Darts Now, the 36-year-old vowed to improve in the knockout stages.
He said: “I think we must be due to play well in the next one together.
“I really feel like I’m gonna turn up tomorrow [in the last 16] and that’s just what I do.”
Whitlock quickly interjected to give his teammate a boost.
He said: “You did turn up tonight mate, you definitely turned up. When I really needed you, you took some big shots.”
‘The Heat’ quickly disagreed and joked: “Here you need these thicker glasses to see what I was throwing.”
Australia still a threat to the World Cup of Darts
Their performances haven’t been vintage, but Australia are still a danger in this tournament.
The format extends to best of 15 in the last 16 which would favour the ‘Aussies’.
‘The Wizard’ has struggled individually in 2024 but always rises to the occasion when he dons the colours of his nation.
Though Heta is unhappy with how he’s played hitherto, he remains one of the best players on the planet.
The former winners play Italy later this afternoon in a favourable draw and expect Australia to seek a statement victory.