Jubilant Jamie Lewis admits he is still in “shock” after roaring into the William Hill World Championship semi-finals.
The Cardigan corker demolished Darren Webster 5-0 in their quarter-final clash and now faces either Phil Taylor or Gary Anderson in tomorrow’s last four tie.
Lewis, 26, continued his fine form which had seen him dump Peter Wright and James Richardson with 14 180s against a stunned Webster.
He is now the first player in history to go from a preliminary round qualifier to semi-finalist. But it still hasn’t sunk in for the Welsh wonder.
He said: “I just can’t believe it. I’ve not had a great year, I’ve just manage to squeak into this World Championships but it’s turned out to be a great tournament for me.
“I’m still in shock I’m in the semis of the Worlds, it’s crazy.
“I’ve just got to keep doing what I am doing and you never know.
“I just got fed up of not believing in myself and I came into this after the qualifier thinking ‘why not just go for it’?
“I know when I can score I can compete with anybody so it’s more self belief and that’s finally kicking in.
“I’ve not really been that nervous, probably the most relaxed I’ve ever been so obviously that helps.
“I did question my future in the game. Halfway through this year I was getting very frustrated because I know what I can actually play like but I wasn’t showing it.
“But I’ve come to this and I’ve actually shown to everybody what I can so it’s nice to get back on track. Whatever happens in this next season I’m back on a clean slate. I’ve hardly got anything to defend so hopefully make it back up the rankings.”
The World No 46 knows he has to find another gear to face a massive last four clash with either Taylor or Anderson - but believes he has a chance.
He added: “I know I can do it and score big. If it clicks then you never know obviously I’ve got a tough game next against Phil or Gary so I’ll have to play very well to beat either of them.
“To be honest I don’t mind who I play. They are both absolute legends. Gary or Phil whoever I play but when it comes to it I’ll just have to focus on my own game.
“If I can play like I have been and get a little bit more consistent then I might have a chance.”
By Phil Lanning (@lannomedia)
Photography from Lawrence Lustig/PDC