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LUKE LITTLER’S REWARD for his remarkable run to the World Darts Championship final is a place in the Premier League.
The 16-year-old finished runner-up to world number one Luke Humphries at Alexandra Palace and his extraordinary run ensured record viewing figures for broadcasters Sky.
What a line-up for the 2024 @BetMGMUK Premier League Darts...
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) January 4, 2024
8️⃣ Stars
1️⃣7️⃣ Weeks
🏆 One Winner pic.twitter.com/97f17L6m88
That put pressure on the Professional Darts Corporation to include Littler, who turns 17 later this month, even though he has not won a major title and as a result the Warrington youngster is set to become the youngest player in Premier League history.
“It’s unbelievable. No more development tour. This is it. Playing in the Premier League and comfortably in the (world’s top) 32,” Littler told Sky Sports News.
The Premier League kicks off in Cardiff on 1 February with the Irish legs of the competition taking place at the 3 Arena in Dublin on 21 March and a week later in Belfast.
“As soon as I came off the stage, did the media and saw the family my manager pulled me aside and said ‘Do you want to do it?’ I said, ‘Let’s do it, it might not happen again’,” Littler added.
“I’ll probably have to take a break maybe from a few ProTours but I knew what was coming as soon as I said yes to the Premier League. This is just going to be an incredible experience.”
After being controversially omitted from the Premier League last year, new world champion Humphries was included this time around. Defending champion Michael van Gerwen, last year’s world champion Michael Smith and two-time world champion Peter Wright all automatically qualified via the PDC Order of Merit.
Former world No 1 Gerwyn Price and Nathan Aspinall are also included, along with former world champion Rob Cross.
Humphries believes it was ultimately the correct decision for him but admitted Littler has to seize the opportunity he has been given.
“Luke did make the right decision. He’s a top talent in darts now and these are the sort of things you want to be playing in. How talented he is already he will grow to even greater heights,” said Humphries.
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A hit for the team?
I’m sure the people in the hospitality sector are delighted with that.
@David Corrigan: Maybe read past the headline.
He’s saying that because they are trying to push for more supports for the hospitality sector and less supports for industries less affected.
@Cynical: You should stop trying to be smart. It really doesn’t suit you. I know what he’s saying.
My point is still valid i.e. I am sure the people working in hospitality don’t feel good at the moment as they have no idea if they can make an income by working or if there will be supports in place.
Do you understand that?
@David Corrigan: I’m pointing out that you’re incorrectly taking the quote out of context and the phrase is being used here to show support to the sector, acknowledging what they have sacrificed for this imperfect situation, in an effort to convince other members of government to increase support only for those that need it.
So again, even if The Journal try to bait your emotions, please read the article after the headline.
What’s the endgame?
@john smith iv: pretty much the same as the marvel one :)
@Raymond Scott: Hi Raymond, totally agree. I also need some advice if you have a minute. I’ve been trying to make a hat from the Dunnes own brand tinfoil but I don’t think it’s a heavy enough gauge. I don’t want to waste more money than required because most of my savings are in gold and crypto, but have you tried any of the premium foil brands and would there be any that you’d specifically recommend?
@Raymond Scott: “fully controlled” – fully controlled how exactly?
@Rob Hunt: ridicule all you want, you not see the pattern? Think all happens coincidental? I predict before xmas Irish government will ban non vaccinated from non essential shops and announce mandatory vaccination. Like just happened today in Germany. I cant help you see.
@Gavin Conran: that is the simple part. How do they ban un vaccinated from restaurants now? Just make sure the app shows red cross if eg you havent paid taxes due etc. Whatever condition.
@Raymond Scott: sounds good. Looking forward to doing all that and having a beer.
@Rob Hunt: what’s the end game, Rob?
A hit for who’s team Leo the leak
Now that FF are a charity, Leo might encourage FF to support the people affected.
What about supporting the staff – they too will feel the the loss of earnings this Christmas
A hit for the team!!!easy to know this man is not self employed.coming up to Christmas with doors closed probably a few of them will not be opening the doors again.
This government = a grinch
Bring back the previous rates of EWSS support to end of March 22
Peace by inches.
We already have staff moving on to reduced hours due to the impact the latest government advice has had on trade, there are no supports for them now are there? They have rent and bills to pay now not next week
have your say