Gurney’s compatriot Josh Rock hit a 104.32 average and a 167 checkout in a 10-5 win over 14th seed Ross Smith while English sixth seed Chris Dobey will face Price next after defeating Germany’s Ricardo Pietreczko by the same scoreline.

Tensions between Gurney and Price appeared to begin when the Northern Irishman appeared to mutter an expletive to himself as the two players prepared to walk off the stage for the second break.

The pair had previously clashed in 2019 when they had to be separated by security after a Premier League match in Sheffield.

Price – who has lost weight as part of a fitness regime – refused to be drawn on the latest bust-up, although did post on Instagram: “Have to be careful these days, I’m down to light-cruiserweight.”

He defied a spectacular 150 checkout from Gurney with back-to-back legs of 11 and 14 darts to wrap up his victory.

“I felt like I really struggled up there, but I still played pretty well,” said the Welshman, who averaged 100.21 and hit six 180s.

“Getting through the first round is always tough for me, but when I do then I’m dangerous.

“There’s a lot more in the tank which is good, and I feel like I’ve got so much more to give in this tournament.”