Jonny Clayton, the reigning champion from 2021, along with Stephen Bunting, Josh Rock, and Gerwyn Price have been selected as the wildcards for the upcoming BetMGM Premier League season. These four players will join the top four automatic picks based on their order of merit, led by the current world No. 1 and double world champion Luke Littler, defending champion Luke Humphries, Gian van Veen, and Michael van Gerwen.
Van Veen, who recently rose to World No. 3 after an impressive performance at the Alexandra Palace, will be making his debut alongside Northern Ireland’s World Cup winner, Josh Rock, in the competition. The Premier League features a 17-week season starting with league matches in Newcastle on February 5 and concluding with the final at The O2 in London on May 28.
Luke Littler, fresh off his world championship victory, aims to reclaim his crown after facing Humphries in the last two finals. The upcoming season promises exciting matches, with Clayton, the world No. 5, looking to defend his 2021 Premier League title.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter expressed excitement over the new lineup, anticipating an entertaining season that will captivate audiences across the UK and Europe. The competition will feature a diverse group of players with impressive track records on darts’ biggest stages.
The season will consist of 16 league nights, each comprising quarter-finals, semi-finals, and a final over the best of 11 legs. Points earned during these nights will determine the league table standings, with the top four players advancing to Finals Night for a chance at victory.