SIMON WHITLOCK is aiming to cement his status as Australia's number one when he faces Kyle Anderson in the BetVictor World Matchplay on Monday.
Whitlock is the sport's most successful Australian star following a career which has so far seen him win the European Championship amongst a host of titles as well as reach the World Championship and Premier League finals.
However, his all-Australian first round clash with World Cup team-mate Anderson in Blackpool will give the Perth-born thrower his chance to claim the bragging rights over Whitlock.
With the tournament being screened live on Fox Sports in their homeland ahead of next month's World Series of Darts events in Auckland, Melbourne and Perth, Whitlock admitted: "I think it's a great draw for both of us and for Australia.
"I've been the number one in Australia for a long time now and that is something I'm very proud of.
"It's a huge tournament and one I really enjoy but this match adds a little extra spice because I want to show that I'm still the top player from Australia."
Speaking on his official website, Whitlock added: "Kyle and I took great pride in representing our country together and we will both see this match as another opportunity to fly the flag for Australia."
The BetVictor World Matchplay will take place from July 22-30 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, live on Sky Sports.
For tickets, click here - including extra tickets released for July 26 and July 30!