Michael van Gerwen wins World Matchplay title

Michael van Gerwen has won his first World Matchplay title with an 18-12 victory over James Wade.

The world number one lost out to Phil Taylor in last year's final, but despite facing an early deficit, he rarely looked in danger of missing out this time around after a below-par display from Wade.

The left-hander held 4-2 and 6-5 leads during the opening stages, but Van Gerwen soon found his rhythm to take six of the next seven legs.

Wade got back to 12-9 after Van Gerwen missed doubles, but the Dutchman rediscovered his form to move into a 17-11 advantage.

He failed to see out the match at the first time of asking, but he returned in the 30th leg to take out double 20 and add another major crown to his collection.