It has probably gone slightly unnoticed, but William O’Connor has put together one of the best years of his career in terms of consistency.

He looks well set for a proper go at a deep run at the Alexandra Palace, and he has a kind first-round draw against Krzysztof Kciuk, whose average and 180 rate are well below the Irishman’s.

In what is one of the most highly anticipated first-round clashes at this year's World Darts Championship, Beau Greaves looks well placed to hit the most 180s when she goes up against Daryl Gurney.

Doncaster darts sensation Greaves is well known for being among the most dominant 180 hitters on the PDC circuit. In fact, since the turn of the year, only world number one Luke Littler (886) has delivered more maximums than Greaves (677).

As for Gurney, he is much more methodical with his style of play and has not been nearly as reliable as Greaves on the 180 front this season, with the Northern Irishman amassing a combined total of 247 maximums over the same period.

The likelihood of Greaves having the backing of the vast majority of the Ally Pally crowd during this clash only adds to the appeal of siding with Beau 'n' Arrow in the 180 battle.

I am excited to see Nathan Aspinall. He's been busy on the exhibition circuit, meaning he's match sharp. He's had an excellent season, so facing off at one of his favourite venues and with the chance to win £1 million, he'll be in this to win it.

He'll facing off against Asia's best player, the little enigma, Lourence Ilagan. A tricky player, with a bit of flair and stage presence. Last time they faced off in the Bahrain Masters, it went the full 11 legs, with Nathan Aspinall just crossing the line and hitting the most 180s along the way. I'll be going with that to happen again in this meeting.

Neither Keane Barry nor Tim Pusey are prolific 180 hitters, but I would rather be with Barry at the prices, as his overall game and big stage experience count in his favour.

Pusey had no 180s in his ANZ Premier League Play Offs match with Raymond Smith which went 10 legs. In his 10 prior best-of-nine outings, he registered 2, 1, 2, 1, 1, 3, 1, 0, 1, 1.