​When does Luke Littler play at the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts? Schedule, opponents and more originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Luke Littler headlines the group of 32 players heading to Blackpool for the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHe was the winner of the event last summer, and in his attempt to win every major on the 2026 PDC calendar, he’ll look to defend his title in Blackpool to continue that historic streak.It’s one of the hardest tournaments to win, though, so let’s take a look at what a route to the title looks like for him.Here is what to expect with Littler’s schedule and potential opponents.* = scenario if Littler advancesRoundOpponentDate: Time (local)First roundNiko SpringerSat. July 18: TBDSecond round*Nathan Aspinall/Joe CullenTues. July 21: TBDQuarterfinals*Rock/Woodhouse/Bunting/ZonneveldThurs. July 23: TBDSemifinals*–Sat. July 25: TBDFinal*–Sun. July 26: TBDLittler plays an unseeded Niko Springer, who is making his Matchplay debut, in the first round on Saturday.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe two players have only faced off in the PDC once before, with Littler winning a PC event 6-5 last year. Both players averaged over 102 in that match, and combined for 10 180s.MORE: 2026 World Matchplay of Darts first round predictions and previews: 6 seeds heading home early?*Visit The Sporting News’ Darts page to stay updated on all news from the 2026 World Matchplay. This article will be updated if and when Littler advances throughout the event2026 World Matchplay of Darts: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explainedLuke Littler contract details: Teenage phenom signs richest endorsement deal in darts history2026 World Matchplay Darts qualifiersBig names set to miss the 2026 World Matchplay of DartsWatch: Luke Littler hits nine-darter in one of the greatest legs of all time against Josh Rock