Luke Littler dumped out of World Cup of Darts with Luke Humphries in shock exit

The England duo of Luke Littler and Luke Humphies have been dumped out of the World Cup of Darts by hosts Germany in a massive surprise

Luke Littler and Luke Humphries were sensationally knocked out of the World Cup of Darts by host nation Germany in what was a major upset on Saturday night.

The English duo, who entered the tournament as heavy favourites, delivered sub-par performances against Martin Schindler and Ricardo Pietreczko, succumbing to an 8-4 defeat in their opening match in Frankfurt.

Amidst a charged atmosphere, the German team quickly surged ahead with a 2-0 lead, much to the delight of the 3,500-strong crowd.

Although Runcorn-born Littler and Humphries managed to draw level, they squandered a favourable position in the fifth leg and couldn't regain their footing, trailing 5-2 at the interval.

The Germans extended their lead immediately after the break, sending the spectators into ecstasy.

Despite showing signs of being shaken, Littler and Humphries narrowed the gap to 7-4 but their hopes of a turnaround were swiftly quashed.

With 62 needed to clinch victory, Pietreczko scored a single 10, then a 20, before sealing the win with a double 16 finish.

Prior to the match, Schindler had confidently declared that the world champion and Premier League champion team were not invincible. Following the match, he took great pleasure in proving his point, reports the Express.

"I was right," he boasted to Sky Sports. "We believed in ourselves and I think we've been putting in a solid performance and obviously the double 16s from Ricardo when it mattered.

"We are very happy to go through."

Martin Schindler shared insight into why his teammate took the lead throws, saying "to be honest he said to me, he's used to being the front guy of the pairs team.

"I said 'If you feel well with it, go for it'."

Germany are set to face the winning team of Australia versus Argentina in tomorrow's quarter-final match.

With high hopes for securing the title for the first time ever for his nation, Pietreczko confidently remarked "it's unbelievable. You hear the crowd. For sure we can go all the way. We're here to win."

Despite their defeat, both Littler and Humphries did extend congratulations to their triumphant opponents but seemed disheartened as they promptly exited the stage.