The WDF World Championships is taking place for the first time at the venue, which previously hosted the British Darts Organisation (BDO) World Championship.

The BDO went into liquidation in 2020, with the WDF World Championships now serving as the successor.

Adams, who was a three-time BDO world champion, featured in the opening match of the men’s tournament at Frimley Green in Surrey, England.

His participation proved a short one, with the 65-year-old losing in straight sets to Cole.

Cole, who was making his debut at the Lakeside Country Club, is due to face Anthony Allen in another all-English match in the second round.

England’s Johnny Haines overcame compatriot John Scott in straight sets in his first round match.

Haines reward is scheduled to be a second round meeting with Belgium’s Brian Raman, the tournament's top seed.

Raman was among the seeds to receive byes into the second round of the competition.

Scotland’s Kim McEwan earned the right to face fourth seed Aaron Turner of England in the second round.

McEwan beat New Zealand’s Landon Gardiner in straight sets in the first round.

The top eight seeds in the women’s draw were also granted byes.

Wales’ Rhian O’Sullivan secured a straight sets win in the first round against England’s Paula Jacklin.

O’Sullivan is now set to face second seed Corrine Hammond of Australia in the second round.

England’s Deta Hedman, the tournament top seed, awaits the winner of the scheduled match between Scotland’s Lorraine Hyde and Australia’s Tori Kewish.