2026 World Matchplay of Darts first round predictions and previews: 6 seeds heading home early?

The 2026 World Matchplay of Darts will get underway this weekend, and the drama could begin early.Several matches could be thrillers, as there's a strong non-seed field this year.2026 World Matchplay of Darts first round predictionsHere are my predictions for the first round.MORE: 2026 World Matchplay of Darts: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explained(8) Josh Rock vs. Luke WoodhouseWinner: Josh Rock, 10-82025 was the best year of Josh Rock's young career, and his semifinal run at Blackpool was one of the highlights.After being selected to the Premier League this year, it's felt like a below-par year for Rock, despite him making a semifinal run at the UK Open and a quarterfinal run at the Masters. That may be due to him struggling in his PL debut, but in general, the consistency has