Luke Littler says Netflix challengers were stronger than he expected

Luke Littler has said he expected to face pub-level opponents on his Netflix darts challenge but recognised more than half the eventual line-up. In comments reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, the world number one reflected on Beat Luke Littler, the live event at which Fallon Sherrock won £501,000 by defeating him.

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The BBC reported that eligibility extended to players outside the PDC Tour, allowing established names and leading juniors to enter alongside less experienced competitors. Littler named Mitchell Lawrie, Zach Griffiths, Fallon Sherrock and Katie Sheldon among the players he knew. He said he had previously competed alongside Griffiths on the Development Tour.

Netflix's official account of the event lists a 24-person roster ranging in age from 14 to 57. Contestants came from across the UK and beyond, with backgrounds including schoolchildren, a Bedford bin worker, a restaurant manager, a former Army captain and an Australian jockey. The challenge offered them a chance to win the prize by beating the world's top-ranked player.

Netflix confirmed that Littler defeated 14 consecutive opponents before Sherrock ended his run. The Associated Press reported that she earned the first throw by finishing closer to the bullseye, then hit a maximum 180 during the winning leg. Her double-20 finish secured the jackpot. The contest was decided over one leg rather than a longer match.

The broadcast was hosted by Gary Lineker, with Richard Osman providing statistical analysis, according to Netflix. Laura Turner, Angry Ginge and Lee Mack also featured in the presentation team. Netflix and Workerbee, part of Banijay UK, produced the event in partnership with the PDC. In Netflix's account of her reaction, Sherrock expressed pride in taking the opportunity she had been given.

Littler told BBC Sport that he regarded the evening positively and would be willing to take part again. He described repeated matches and movement on and off the stage in the heat as a learning experience. His comments expressed interest in another event, rather than announcing a confirmed follow-up broadcast.