Sixteen-time darts world champion Phil Taylor has called an abrupt end to his exhibition tour of Australia and New Zealand to mourn the death of his mother.

Taylor recently flew back home to England to spend time with his 74-year-old mother Liz, who had been suffering with a lung infection.

According to the Daily Star, a spokesperson for Taylor said: "We can confirm that unfortunately Phil Taylor's mother passed away, we understand in the early hours of Friday morning.

"Phil did return home early from his exhibition appearances in New Zealand, and the planned Sydney leg was subsequently cancelled by the organisers."

Stoke-born Taylor dedicated his Grand Slam of Darts triumph in November to his mother while she was ill.