It's double and strife for Luke

Littler is no fan of unique start but he hopes to better his debut

- SAMUEL MEADE

LUKE LITTLER confesses he's dreading competing in the World Grand Prix due to the unique format that has previously tripped him up.

The tournament kicked off last night at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester, with the teenage prodigy installed as the bookmakers' favourite as Scot Cameron Menzies took a big scalp in reaching the second round.

The World Grand Prix has relocated to Leicester after 19 years in Dublin, but it poses a distinctive challenge for competitors as the 501-leg countdown can only commence once a player has hit a double.

Littler is known to oppose the unusual rule and suffered a disappointing debut 12 months ago. The Nuke was defeated 2-1 in sets by Rob Cross in the opening round.