Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship - Shepherd Replaces Modra

SHEPHERD REPLACES MODRA

KIRK SHEPHERD has replaced Rob Modra in the Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

The DartPlayers Australia number one has been unable to obtain the required visa to compete at Alexandra Palace in the World Championship, which begins on Thursday in London.

As such, his place will now be taken by 2008 finalist Shepherd, who was the highest non-qualified player from the Players Championship Order of Merit.

Shepherd will now take on Wayne Jones in the first round at Alexandra Palace on Monday December 20.

The Birmingham-based youngster gained revenge for his defeat to John Part in the 2008 final at last year^s event, when he overcame the Canadian in round two before losing out to Mark Webster in the last 16.