North East darts star Chris Dobey is "buzzing" to be part of the 2025 Premier League Darts line-up alongside world champion Luke Littler. The eight-strong line-up was announced on Monday, featuring Dobey, Littler, Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, and Nathan Aspinall. The league stage will tour across the UK, with one event scheduled to be held in Newcastle this March.
"I'm buzzing to be part of it, it's another step in the right direction for my career," Dobey told The Northern Echo. "You get to play with the elite week in, week out. You play at the big, massive arenas, and it's one everyone keeps an eye on. It's similar to the World Championships; everybody wants to be watching the Premier League."
Dobey, known for wearing black and white, received words of congratulations from previous Premier League winner Glen Durrant - another North East star. Dobey shared, "Duzza sent me a message after the line-up was announced, and I hope I can win to get Glen off my back!"
Particularly excited, Dobey looks forward to competing at the Newcastle Arena, describing it as "unbelievable." He stated, "It's something special, and something I'm definitely looking forward to." Dobey plans to change his walk-on song back to the Geordie anthem 'Local Hero,' which he used during past appearances at Newcastle Premier League nights, swapping it out temporarily from the tune associated with Ant and Dec.
Yet, the announcement has not come without controversy. Some darts fans expressed their displeasure, particularly over the exclusion of prominent players like World Grand Prix champion Mike De Decker and UK Open champion Dimitri van den Berg. "It is hard to take. I was in their situation last year, where I felt I played pretty well consistently and was just overlooked. But they make their decisions for their own reasons," Dobey reflected. He added, "I thought Mike was in with a good shout, but I think if he would have gone a couple steps farther at the World Championships, then he would have been involved. But I’m sure they'll be back tougher and stronger than ever, wanting to get back there."
The Premier League Darts kicks off with its first event at the SSE Arena in Belfast on February 6, 2025. Matches will take place every Thursday evening from February to May, set against the lively backdrop of various cities throughout the UK, Ireland, and Europe. The tournament culminates with the playoffs and final held at the O2 Arena in London on May 29, 2025.
Among the notable figures, reigning champion Luke Littler looks to defend his title, facing off against world number one Luke Humphries, Rob Cross, and Michael van Gerwen - his opponent during his historic win at Alexandra Palace earlier this month. Littler, known for his exceptional performances, acquired automatic entry for the tournament based on his top-four ranking.
The competition promises electrifying matchups, with £1 million up for grabs. Each night will feature eight-player knockout tournaments, where players compete throughout the season. Night one will commence at the SSE Arena, followed by events at the OVO Hydro, 3Arena, and other impressive venues, including the highly anticipated night at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle, on March 27.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter commented on the lineup, saying, "We want people on the edge of their seats. Players like Dobey, Price, and Aspinall have big stage presence and can energize crowds, which is fantastic for the competition. There were players above them who weren’t selected, but compelling performances and popularity among fans weigh significantly here."
The excitement is palpable as fans prepare for another thrilling season of Premier League Darts, eagerly anticipating the high-octane clashes and stunning displays of talent. The long-awaited return to Newcastle will surely be the highlight for many, with Dobey welcoming the opportunity to showcase his skills on home turf.
With substantial buzz surrounding the new season rapidly approaching, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Dobey shine and secure victory before his home crowd? Can Littler maintain his championship title? The world of darts is on the brink of spirited competition as the stage is set for the 2025 Premier League Darts.