World Matchplay Darts clash abandoned as Cameron Menzies falls ill and rival rushes to his aid as cameras pan away

CAMERON MENZIES fainted during his World Matchplay showdown with Ross Smith – leading to the clash being abandoned. The pair were battling for a place in the quarter-finals when there were worrying scenes at Winter Gardens. Cameron Menzies fell ill during his clash with Ross Smith Credit: Sky Sports The Scot was helped off the stage after appearing to buckle Credit: Getty Menzies, 37, had raced into a 2-1 lead before he appeared to buckle in front of thousands of fans. Smith and officials rushed to his aid while Sky Sports’ cameras panned away. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! Menzies, who notched a statement win over Luke Humphries in the opening round of the tournament, was then helped off the stage. A statement released by the PDC read: “Cameron Menzies was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening. “Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint. “Following an assessment by the on-site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation. “We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon.” In the aftermath of Menzies falling ill, Sky Sports host Emma Paton said: “Cameron Menzies is currently unwell. All we know is that he is being seen to by St John’s Ambulance. Most read in Sport Smith and officials rushed to Menzies’ aid Credit: Getty The clash was abandoned Credit: Getty “We know that he is with some medics at the moment. Hopefully he is okay and feeling better very shortly.” The match was initially suspended before it was announced that the contest had been abandoned, with Smith receiving a bye into the quarter-finals. The PDC said: “Cameron Menzies is unable to continue his round two clash after being taken unwell. “Ross Smith progresses to the quarter-finals as a result. “The next match between Gian van Veen and Wessel Nijman will start shortly.” Paton then added: “We understand Cameron Menzies is still being assessed, but he is conscious, is sitting up and is now talking to his partner.” Pundit Glen Durrant said: “All our thoughts are with Cammy. He was in great form and we all hope he is OK.” Menzies had been in stunning form before his evening at Winter Gardens was cut short. The Scot had also done some social media sketches for the PDC and recreated his 170 ‘Big Fish’ finishes shortly before going on stage. Smith, 37, is set to face Gerwyn Price or Rob Cross with a place in the semi-finals up for grabs. Comment now