Phil Taylor begins bid for 16th World Matchplay title in Blackpool

Phil Taylor will start the defence of his World Matchplay title against John Henderson on Monday night, live on Sky Sports.

Live World Matchplay Darts

The 15-time champion has reigned supreme at Blackpool in recent years and will be targeting an eighth successive trophy this week at the Winter Gardens.

But he is braced for another tough battle, with the likes of world No 1 Michael van Gerwen, Adrian Lewis and Peter Wright already through to the second round.

You've probably got about 15 or 16 who can win this tournament now.

"There are a few threats (to his title). It's not just about one player anymore," he told Sky Sports. "You've probably got about 15 or 16 who can win this tournament now.

"The standard of darts has improved 100 per cent, but then again people have got the money now to be professional and stay home and concentrate to do their job properly."

He faces Henderson in this evening's third scheduled match and victory could set-up another showdown with old rival Raymond van Barneveld in the next stage.

The Dutchman, a runner-up to Taylor in 2010, must firstly find a way past Andy Hamilton in the closing encounter on the oche.

Dave Chisnall and Keegan Brown, two of the sport’s most exciting performers, are also in action at the famous venue.

'Chizzy', who has reached the quarter-finals in the past two years, has been handed a tricky clash against Jamie Caven .

The 22-year-old Brown takes on European Open champion Robert Thornton in the opening clash.  

Watch tonight's action from the World Matchplay at 7pm on Sky Sports 1 HD.