knockout

Like last year, the Lakers will have to survive group play to advance to the knockout round stage.

He had a run of 37 consecutive wins, including 33 by knockout.

The starting front row of Tendai Mtawarira, Bongi Mbonambi and Malherbe were replaced - aside from unplanned injuries - early in each second half by Malcolm Marx, Steven Kitshoff and Vincent Koch in their knockout victories over Japan, Wales and England.

It is the first time since 2010 that three-time world champion Van Gerwen has not made it to the knockout stage of the tournament.

However, this throws up the possibility of uncertainty over where knockout matches would be played if India progress to the semi-finals.