The 2021 champion had been expected to ease past Luke Woodhouse but his opponent won the opening set with an three-dart average of 104.

The second set went to a decider and Price held his cool for an 83 checkout. It steadied the nerves for the Welshman, who won six of the next seven legs for a 3-1 victory and his place in the next round.

But it was far from a vintage performance as he managed an average of just 92 and hit only a third of his attempts at doubles.

“I put myself under a lot of pressure,” said Price afterwards. “I’m defending a lot of ranking points and I really needed to get through this game.

“Regardless of the performance, I’m glad I came through that because I’m sure I will improve throughout the rest of the tournament.

“I was really nervous and I wanted to have a good start. Sometimes you try too hard and, towards the end of the game, I began to play a little bit better.”