STUART Kellett will take on Paul Nicholson in the Ladbrokes World Darts Championship’s first round later this month after they were paired in Monday’s draw.

They meet in the sport’s annual showpiece event at Alexandra Palace, in London, which starts on Friday week, December 13.

The duo met in Wolverhampton last month at the William Hill Grand Slam of Darts, when the Australian denied the Northwich ace a place in the second round after winning their decisive group stage encounter.

Nicholson is 20th seed for the tournament, reflecting his current ranking on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Order of Merit.

Kellett is placed just outside the top 32, in 35th position.

The 32-year-old bowed out at the first round stage of last year’s world championship after a 3-0 defeat against Dutchman Vincent van der Voort.

The schedule for the tournament, which is broadcast live on television by SKY Sports, will be announced later this week.