World Championship debutant Rob Cross shocked the world of Darts by dumping out World No 1 Michael van Gerwen in an epic semi-final, before making an astonishing revelation in his post-match interview.

Still shellshocked after his nerve shredding defeat of the defending champion, he divulged something that his opponent in the final, 16-time world champion Phil Taylor, said to him at the Grand Slam event in November.

"Phil said to me at the Grand Slam 'me and you in the final' at the World Championship and that's come true now," he revealed.

"He's my favourite player actually, he was dominant and now he's leaving.

"It's going to be special for him but I've got to do my own job to do what I can to win this game."

Englishman Cross has had a phenomenal rise this year after being an amateur just 12 months ago when Van Gerwen lifted the title.

He showed nerves of steel to overcome the Dutchman 6-5 in a titanic encounter that will live long in the memory for those who witnessed it.

The 27-year-old Cross, now up to six in the rankings, was ecstatic after his amazing victory, saying: "At a point I felt inexperienced, I really did, but I still got through.

"Tomorrow I will make sure I'm right again.

"I believe in my own ability and I actually believe I can keep with Michael every day.

"There are other factors there which don't allow me to do so and it's the comfortability. I feel I can be better than what I am but that needs to come to the show.

"In fairness we are trying not to look at rankings. Unless I am No 1 they don't mean anything.

"This is just amazing. i never expected this rise I really didn't. I was just a working boy from a normal household."

He will know that it will be no easy task to complete his fairytale year and lift the trophy as he will have to overcome his hero and a legend playing in his final event before retiring.

It is sure to be an emotional occasion for both players and one that will have the crowd at the Alexandra Palace on the edge of its seat.

One wonders if Phil the Power's clairvoyance skills extend to him already knowing the outcome!