Chisnall through to second round of William Hill World Championship
Number seven seed Chisnall saw off Austrian youngster Rodriguez in a thrilling encounter which went all the way to a deciding fifth set.
Chisnall, the runner-up in three televised events during 2016 including last month’s Players Championship Finals, produced a sensational final set with legs of 11, 15 and 11 darts and finishes of 90, 117 and 96 to claim victory.
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Hide AdThe number seven seed, whose nine 180s was the joint most in the first round, now moves through to a last 32 clash with Chris Dobey.
“Rowby-John played well but I managed to find a bit more in the locker,” said Chisnall.
“I think I’m in with a chance this year because I’ve reached two big finals and it has always taken Michael van Gerwen to beat me. I knew it was going to be tough against Rowby and it was, but I’m really pleased with my performance.”