Impossible to say 100% that means there is literally zero chance of it happening, If that’s the case I’m sure you will put a sizeable bet on at the bookies and share the slip so we can see yea ?
You have to remember the 2021 lineup with De Sousa, Dimi and Clayton as new faces so having lots of new faces this year is boy out the question and could also be a good thing for the pdc
Honestly i tought last year was really hard to pick a line-up, but this year its even harder. My 100 % are also Littler, Humphries and MvG and in addition to that, i would put cross in. So 4 players in total. Because of top 4 is in, chizzy could be top4 of the end of the year (just check post world championchip rankings). So we have 5 now. The next 3 players are gonna be pretty tough. Mike de decker should be in consedering his year and World Grand Prix win over world number 1. We have 6 now. With my next to picks im gonna pick bunting(solid player) and gary anderson, who can play crazy averages and is a fan favourite. I dont see price and smith in, they literally done nothing in this year (except world cup win, but that shouldnt count to much) and are ranked pretty low in year-to-date. Thats my 8 players.
My 8 right now: Luke Humphries Michael Van Gerwen Rob Cross Dave Chisnall Luke Littler Michael Smith Stephen Bunting Mike De Decker Think its a toss up between Chizzy/Heta, whichever gets top four and Bunting/Edhouse. I'd edge Bunting because, no disrepect to Edhouse, but Bunting is a bigger name
I’d prefer it if there was a pool of 10 players, with 7 playing in the current mini-tournament format each week (on rotation), plus 1 ‘challenger’. Ideally the challenger would be a local player. I think that combines a lot of good elements of previous Premier League editions and keeps things exciting.
@@msk5581 This format is for the ticket sales and people in the venues. For me as a TV format its flat after 2 or 3 weeks. Use to look forward to matches now its "sure I'll see it again soon enough"
Great points, Matt. I agree top 4 plus Littler. I prefer deDecker to Edhouse or vdBerg and then one familiar and the surprise package of the last 3 tournaments - could be Edhouse, Wright, Anderson, Clayton or Heta... 1. Humphries 2. Littler 3. MvG 4. Cross 5. Chisnall 6. deDecker 7. Aspinall/Smith/Price 8. Anderson/Clayton/Heta
mike smith will be out the top 4 and no major. it'll be: humphries (will stay in top 4), mvg (will stay in top 4), littler (will be in top 4), dave chisnall (will be in top 4), mike de decker (major winner), stephen bunting (won the masters, popular), martin schindler (i think he has some deep runs and gets into top 8, world darts angle) damon heta (playing good darts atm, decent ranking, might improve that, popular)
Picking now it's HUMPHRIES MVG LITTLER CROSS CHIZZY (won't do anything in majors but default ranking pick) ASP SMITH and I guess BUNTING from the new major winners being the most popular and highest ranked. Anyone else needs a/or another big run. Wright and Price going out imo probably helps Smith hang on, are they going to turf out 3 world champs at once?
I'm always surprised when people predict the Premier league because theres usually something that doesnt get mentioned: aside from being in the top 4 and media favouribility there's 2 words that consistently describes what the selectors look for: "national icons". If Wright's not in it, for me Anderson is locked in and they'll justify it on his form. They will want one Belgian. The Dutch player is straight forward. They'll want Price but may not get him. But most of all I think the PDCs dream is for Schindler to win a November major or reach the world's final and finally tap that German market for 17 weeks.
@@benwilliams8667 I agree, that they hope to be able to defend a German pick, AND they would love to have Ando back. And, if Dimi is out, deDecker is in. But, the thing is, with the 8 player format, those spots are quickly filled. Pretty sure Wright is out, unless he magically has a run in The Worlds. A quarter final, at least. And the PDC would live to see Ando back, but is he interested? One thing is for certain: when the picks are announced, at least 8 players are going to be disappointed...
@@benwilliams8667 Chris Mason did an interview on "Online darts", where he proposed a hybrid between the old and the current format : first phase, 12 players, playing 11 weeks, like "the old days", a cut off, to 8 players, who then plays a number of nights like the current format, ending with the final 4 night. Actually, he speaks of an initial phase where players meet twice, but that would be 22 weeks, plus the second phase, plus Final 4, so..... But really, 11 nights, plus maybe 4 nights, plus Final 4 would make selection easier, and could be the best of both worlds.
May be completely wrong, but I seem to remember MvG saying the top 4 in the world is not a 100% guarantee for the PL, so I'm not fully sure Chisnall gets in. He has been shocking on the TV this year and they tend to base it off consistent deep TV performances in combination with marketability a la Peter Wright. I like Dave but I'm not sure about the casual darts fan.
MvG, Littler, Humphries and Cross are essentially locks. I'd love to see Heta go on a run and secure Top 4 but likely to be Chizzy or a shock at the Worlds. Bunting as a fan favourite seems likely in a year where recognisable names are going to be missing. Van Den Bergh another character that the PDC enjoy. A decent run at the Worlds probably gets him in. Assuming Price turns it down (which looks likely), Aspinall probably squeaks in as a familiar face (also the most popular walk-on on the tour). So my 8 at the moment are MvG, Littler, Humphries, Cross, Chisnall, Bunting, Van Den Bergh and Aspinall/Price. Though honestly, would like to see De Decker in there just as a fresh face.
U are on point with the 4 locks !! I would still rather see De Decker in rather than Dimitri , who hasn't shown anything significant the last couple of months ( even that little title doesn't convince me yet ) .
@BlueHopi144 I'd be all for that. I just think PDC will want a 'villain' if Price isn't there and Dimi has been the new bad guy ever since the UK Open. Also he typically does quite well at the Worlds (when he doesn't draw Hempel) and that's going to be all important for the maybes.
They will never invite 2 Belgians and certainly not having no PL night in Belgium. The latter would have an immense success though. Unless Dimi get a big run (SF/F/win) on one of the remaing majors or the Worlds, Mike De Decker will be a bigger contender for a place in the PL than Dimi is.
Considering the fact that the premier league is basically just a glorified exhibition event, I'd hope for them to make the line up represent as many nationalities as possible, if the players earned it ofc. I predict the next top 4 to look something like this: - Luke Humphries - Michael van Gerwen - Rob Cross - Luke Littler (Yes, I actually expect Littler to have some deep runs in the upcoming events and thus make it into the top four. The lad certainly has the drive and the talent to do this) For the remaining 4 slots I would hope the following players: - Damon Heta (Certainly one of the best players around atm, very entertaining and likeable guy, though I admit, it would take at least a quarter final and the World's for him to be in) - Jonny Clayton (current welsh number one and it seems he's back to playing close to his best. Overall, just an amazing guy and fans love him) - Mike de Decker (You can argue for Dimi in this place, but I honestly don't really like watching Dimi play, especially when he starts with his usual antics. Yes, this is my bias speaking, but Mike has been playing great for a while now, won a major title and is overall just a very likeable person that people can support) - Martin Schindler (There are probably some people who would deserve the final spot more than Martin, but I think a couple of good runs in the upcoming months could get him in. He's a great player, certainly one of the most accomplished ones this year, and including him would be a huge boost for German darts.) Obviously this list is more based on emotions that cold, hard facts. But one can dream, right? Imho, the next Premier League is probably one of the least predictable i current years
Interesting…..I don’t think price wants it nor Anderson…..not sure de decker is ready but agree with your pick without price and de decker…..would put in heta and bunting as both box office
A few players I don’t want to see back in the Premier League next year are Price, Wright and van den Bergh. Price has moaned about the PL so much now that he has to put his money where his mouth is and miss out for a year. Peter Wright has hardly won a game in the last 2 editions. With van den Bergh, he just simply doesn’t fit the criteria when it comes to entertainment and watchability. Rob Cross is another one who’s very ‘meh’ imo, but he’ll probably get in through the top 4.
Interesting perspective in regards to the PL . For De Decker , i heard him say clearly (not dismissing the possibility ) he does not feel ready yet to undergo such a tough task for many weeks .... but let's see how the end of the year unfolds for these possible candidates . He sure shown some incredible improvements this year
Ah but if he gets invited he will 100% do it. I doubt there is any other player (maybe Gerwyn) would would turn down that prospect of PL sponsorship, TV, money and media attention. Even if he doesn't feel ready, he will defo give it a go if he is asked
Matt, do you think that the big bosses in charge would pick players that are more exciting, sell seats and sell more beer than someone who is similar in talent but boring?? Always a great watch, keep up the great work 👍.
Schindi is the one of interest (sure PDC will be desperate to get him in for Europe fans). Will want a euro representative- De Decker maybe more than DVB due to freshness but 50/50 atm for me. Sure Anderson would be in if he wants. Currently I’m guessing: MVG Luke Luke Cross Bunting Chizzy Decker Anderson/Schindi
Depending on who has a better run, in next three majors. Anderson could be picked above Smith. As well know, and would give a focus for events in Scotland.
I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Price in. I know he said he doesn't want to, but the PDC will definitely want him in. Same with Wright. The big names draw the crowds even if they aren't the best players.
Matt, regarding Edhouse's selection due to his winning a major TV title. Keep in mind that said title was the European Championship, and there is a precedent for the Euro champ being overlooked for PL selection.
Humphries (100%) Littler (100%) MvG (100%) Cross (ranking gets him in) Chisnall (ranking gets him in) Heta (personality + non-brit is key) Bunting (so popular he is in with a decent run somewhere) De Decker (major winner + they'll want another european in) Price and Ando won't play; other British players will need to win something to force the PDC to include them. Edhouse just not marketable enough (like Gilding and Ross Smith as major winners before him who werent ranked high enough to force their hand) PDC have shown they want international players involved which leaves door open for Schindler + Dimi imo if they have big runs.
How have your premier league predictions changed throughout the year. Would be a interesting video, madness seeing edhouse's name alongside premier league🤣
I wonder about Clayton. World number 6, former prem champ, Welsh number 1 but price in ahead of him? Just think if he has a decent run somewhere they can put him as he’s in better form than price imo. Would be odd not to have number 6 in there, although they didn’t put world number 5 humphries in a few years ago 😂
Just an idea but a second leave for the premier league could be a fun addition because I’d love to see a sort of relegation / promotion added to the equation that would be so cool imo ! Because if your a football fan your know the drama this brings to football and this would add something so could play like this other league on say a another weekday
As of now for me: Humphries Littler MVG Cross Clayton (outside chance but as of late picking up his form again and going further than those around him in recent tournaments) Dimitri (deep runs in the majors so far this year + won a major) And any other 2 players. Don’t see Edhouse or De Decker in unless they keep their form and go on deep runs in majors. In relation to Jonny Clayton, a good run at the PC Finals and World Championship should get him in - if he ends up qualifying for GS then helps the case even more Don’t see Ando playing in it. Not sure about James Wade. Heta and bunting potentially. Mike Smith and Nathan Aspinall it depends on their end of year form similar to Clayton. As for Chizzy, he only gets in for me if he’s in top 4 of OOM. Price doesn’t get in for me unless he wins the worlds
Off topic but i think the winner of the World Seniors Darts Championship should get a spot in the Grand Slam because lets be honest who ever wins it might not be great but they would still be capable of pulling off a few wins together it's like let's be honest you are never going to get a strange winner like Bob Anderson for example when he was in it so that's the point i was making there will always be someone winning the Seniors that is capable of winning a few games.
Of the 50/50 I would select cross and aspinall..I don’t think chizzy is ready yet and iceman needs to chill now for next season.i think bully boy must still be in..bunting should be a contender…..of your 8 I would not select chizzy or price.
To early to decide but my Lineup would be the winner of last years Premier League followed by the winner of any ranked tournament. So far the only definates would be Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Dimitri Van Den Bergh, Mike De Decker and Ritchie Edhouse with the Players Championship and Grandslam still to play.
1 Luke Humphries 2 Michael van Gerwen 3 Luke Littler 4 Rob Cross 5 Dave Chisnall 6 Mike de Decker 7 Damon Heta/Stephen Bunting 8 Michael Smith/Nathan Aspinall/Gerwyn Price (don't think Gezzy wants it)
I really don't think Price will be in. At this moment I would switch him for Aspinall. Just a gut feeling for a lack of interest from Price and that the PDC won't think he will be competitive enough. He's only 26th at the rankings in 2024. Not enough for a 50/50 player knowing his past. Aspinall could make the argument about his injury to get picked.
My 8 right now: 1-3: MVG, Littler, Humphries - as you said Matt, guarantees 4: Cross: Pretty much guarantee for me, projected world #3, regularly plays very good darts, insanely clutch player too 5: Dimitri: Say what you want about his antics, his record in major tournaments this year is second only to Humphries. SF at the masters, UK Open winner, SF world cup, SF Grand Prix, QF matchplay where he lost a great game to Humphries. Not to mention he's one of PDC's favourites, speaks many languages etc. 6: Chizzy: Projected world #4 and has quite a solid buffer (60+ grand ahead of Clayton, Heta, Gezzy, who are all currently not in the slam, so that gap could grow even bigger). With the guys already mentioned likely to hog the bulk of the prize money in the remaining majors I think it's pretty unlikely Chizzy doesn't end the year in the top 4, which would guarantee him a spot. Now's when it gets interesting because I think these 6 are very likely, but after them it's a complete mystery. I don't see them including MDD or Edhouse unless they go on another very deep run or win another major, or make multiple QF+ runs in the last 3 majors (slam, pc finals, worlds). So with that said, my current predicted final 2 would be: 7: Bunting: Was unfortunate the masters was moved at the start of this year otherwise he'd have been in this year. Now a major champion, will be top 10 in the world, plays at a very high standard and last but certainly not least, he is a HUGE fan favourite. Everyone loves Bunting! 8: Clayton: This is a bit of a wild card but comes just as much because all the other contenders have been worse as because of anything Jonny has done. First, I'll go over the reasons for Jonny. He has been in decent form, projected world #5, and is now Welsh #1. Multiple time major champion, and I think very importantly, he has an exceptional record in the prem. In 3 years, he's made the playoffs every year, won it on debut and finished top of the regular season table in year 2. Now, let's look at the other contenders: Gando: Might be in my 8 over Clayton but I genuinely believe he would decline the offer, and he hasn't done much in the majors regardless. M Smith: He might be my personal favourite player but he has simply not done enough, if we're being completely honest he didn't really deserve it this year either but got in for his world ranking. He got into the 2024 prem from his 2022 accomplishments. His 2024 season has been better than 2023 but still not enough so far to justify inclusion. Gezzy: Constantly slags off the prem to the media, poor record in majors this year, poor record in the prem. Asp: Struggled with injury, poor record in majors, barely qualified for euros and currently barely qualifying for pc finals. Wright: Been crap most of the year, awful pl record. Heta: Poor record in majors and cringe af walk ons that I'm not convinced fans really enjoy. Wade: Might be closer than people think, has had a superb record in majors the past 12 months, still will need multiple more deep runs or a major trophy to get into the conversation. MDD/Edhouse: As I said earlier, too low in the rankings.
Premier League is so incredibly boring. Same players bar the odd one or two each year, same matches week in, week out. Obviously won't be binned, but should be.
Agree mostly, but I feel Bunting and Dimi are part of the 50/50s, and I think at least Bunting will be in instead of one of Chizzy/Price/Smith. Also, we know you're not a fan of Damon Heta's walk-ons, but I've also heard that the higher ups in the PDC themselves apparently don't rate him very highly and view it all as a bit silly and feel he's trying too hard to fabricate a 'character'. I feel it's quite telling when looking at the Euro Tour schedules and who they put on the afternoon and evening sessions to judge how much the PDC actually values certain players. Do you think he has any chance of being picked if he doesn't reach the Top 4 or a major final?
This is what I think. As It Stands for 2025 Premier League Darts Lower 3 players are in order to drop 1. (Michael van Gerwen or Martin Schindler) 2. Michael Smith 3. Stephen Bunting 1. Stephen Bunting 2. Dimitri Van den Bergh 3. Luke Littler 4. Michael Smith 5. Luke Humphries 6. Mike De Decker 7. Ritchie Edhouse 8. Michael van Gerwen or Martin Schindler
This is literally the only interesting thing about the Premier league.....guessing who will be in it. When it actually starts, I couldn't care less about it!
Think price doesnt get in as hes expressed a hate towards it when it finished earlier this year and i think de decker misses out too id say aspinall gets in and also bunting in their places
I wouldn't say Littler is for 100% in pl cuz he is not doing great in the ranking majors, if he goes out round 1/groupstage in the next majors aswell I don't think he should be there.
My eight would be: Top 4 OOM: Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, Rob Cross, Dave Chisnall Reigning Champion: Luke Littler Major Winners: Dimitri Van den Bergh, Mike De Decker Other: Johnny Clayton If someone else wins the Worlds then put them in instead of Clayton. Personally I don't consider the Euro Champs to be a Major hence no Edhouse - yes it is on TV but that just makes it a Premier event. The only Majors in my mind are the UK Open, Matchplay, Grand Prix and World Championship. This said I wouldn't be surprised if the PDC continue to choose their little clique plus a couple of others with the final line-up being Humphries, Littler, MVG, Price, Wright, Heta, M.Smith and Clayton
@@RyanLucroy personally I don't think the PDC will choose either to be honest - they are only included in my list as they are both Major winners (Humphries currently holding the other two Majors is already in as no 1 on the OOM). As they love Germany so much with all the ET events being played there, Porter and Co may even surprise us all and put in either Schindler or Clemens even though neither has really done much (excluding Schindi's two ET wins)
@@donaldjgumpofficial5754 personally I don't think it is although there could be an argument to include it as one since it became a ranked event - but Humphries is the current holder of that as well at the moment and he is already guaranteed in the line-up anyway
Chizzy and Bunting pushing for positions?? MVG,Cool Hand,and The Nuke only 3 certs!!! Rob Cross should make the cut?? De Decker is a poss?? Bully boy still should cut the Mustard?? Will all change come January???
If you asked me a month ago I would have said Josh Rock I was exepcting a monster run and being a dynamic Prem Esque player that I'd back him. But hes been poor and with the shocking MDD Edhouse majors I am lost. I think rn I'd go for 2 Lukes, MVG, Smith, Asp, Chizzy, Cross (Assuming Asp and Smith make QF+ in worlds) then 1 left I'm torn on De Decker or Heta as I think Schindler isnt your Prem face and Edhouse I love him but I just feel like he's ranked way too low. I am sticking with Asp and Smith for sure as the Prem is about big names and entertainment which is why I'd also probably back Heta, but I think given how close this all is the worlds I think decides this
No thought no preference, here is the top 8 in 2024 money won 1 Luke Humphries 486.5 2 Michael van Gerwen 266 3 Dimitri Van den Bergh 220.5 4 Mike De Decker 215.25 5 Ritchie Edhouse 212.5 6 Dave Chisnall 207 7 Luke Littler 202.5 8 Stephen Bunting 183 This would be a crazy lineup
Agree on all except Chisnall and Price. Chisnall unlikely to hold a top 4 spot given poor TV form. Price can't justify a pick on dire form. Replace with Heta and Bunting.
I think they should start to include some exclusions for 1 or 2 years, if you come in the bottom few in the premier league. So say bottom 2 cant qualify no matter what they do for 2 years or something like that. would spice things up a bit
@ that is true but if it was all about merit then you would just take the top 8 in the world rankings and be done with it. There has always been a mix of competing factors in the shakeout that determine the final lineup and naturally it is going to be very subjective.
I won't do who I think will be in, I'll do who I'd pick if I were them DEFINITELY Luke Humpries Luke Littler PROBABLY Michael Van Gerwen Rob Cross HOPEFULLY Gary Anderson Dave Chisnall Damon Heta Nathan Aspinall
This is the first event you've not picked Darryl Gurney to win.
Lol
Price is 100% not playing the PL. He's skipping the Grand Slam and was not on a good vibe last year's PL.
Impossible to say 100% that means there is literally zero chance of it happening,
If that’s the case I’m sure you will put a sizeable bet on at the bookies and share the slip so we can see yea ?
I would love to see deDecker in the PL, but he'll have to have a good run at The Worlds, to be in with a shot.
@@Edgartvdartscan you bet on it?
Think Price said he didn’t like the format either
i would bet you even money anything up to 500quid he isnt playing and I would escrow money to Edgar
i want Gary Anderson in there!
He will get it by one of the PDC picks. The views are too much better with him in it. Both in person and on TV.
He's already ruled himself out as he doesn't want the stress of all the travel
Me too but he has said NO cos his young family.
I think they will ask gary in advance..and he will proberly day no.
You have to remember the 2021 lineup with De Sousa, Dimi and Clayton as new faces so having lots of new faces this year is boy out the question and could also be a good thing for the pdc
Would love to see Wade have a good two month run and make the Premiere League.
No his boring
Honestly i tought last year was really hard to pick a line-up, but this year its even harder. My 100 % are also Littler, Humphries and MvG and in addition to that, i would put cross in. So 4 players in total. Because of top 4 is in, chizzy could be top4 of the end of the year (just check post world championchip rankings). So we have 5 now. The next 3 players are gonna be pretty tough. Mike de decker should be in consedering his year and World Grand Prix win over world number 1. We have 6 now. With my next to picks im gonna pick bunting(solid player) and gary anderson, who can play crazy averages and is a fan favourite. I dont see price and smith in, they literally done nothing in this year (except world cup win, but that shouldnt count to much) and are ranked pretty low in year-to-date. Thats my 8 players.
My 8 right now:
Luke Humphries
Michael Van Gerwen
Rob Cross
Dave Chisnall
Luke Littler
Michael Smith
Stephen Bunting
Mike De Decker
Think its a toss up between Chizzy/Heta, whichever gets top four and Bunting/Edhouse. I'd edge Bunting because, no disrepect to Edhouse, but Bunting is a bigger name
I think youve got it spot on.bunting has done well this year..
Edhouse has now proved himself.We will see a lot more of him now.
Thanks for update Matthew , I am a darts fanatic and I personally cannot warn to the premier league at all I don't really know why !!! Just my opinion
Bored of the format to be honest. Ended up seeing the same matchups every other week.
Thanks for replying buddy I totally agree needs a shake up @@eggcellent6981
The eight I’d like to see, Humphries, Littler, MVG, Clayton,Bunting , Aspinall, De Decker ,Cross.
Mike has become popular by Beating the Number on in that fabulous final 3 weeks ago . Happy for him but not sure he would like that position right now
@@damianleah6744 I could see 7 of those. I believe Smith will be in, regardless of dropping out of the top 10...
Your full of shit, you know as well as most darts fans know they will be 1 change,2 at a push but I only think wright will be dropped
Humphries, Littler, MVG, Cross, De Decker, Heta, Chisnall, M. Smith
interesting line - up
Would love to see Gary in next year. I think he’d welcome it.
Great video Matt.
Humphires, MVG, Cross, Littler, De Decker, Chizzy, Ando and Wade
I still wish to get the old Format back
I don’t like this format neither.
I’d prefer it if there was a pool of 10 players, with 7 playing in the current mini-tournament format each week (on rotation), plus 1 ‘challenger’. Ideally the challenger would be a local player. I think that combines a lot of good elements of previous Premier League editions and keeps things exciting.
@@msk5581 This format is for the ticket sales and people in the venues. For me as a TV format its flat after 2 or 3 weeks. Use to look forward to matches now its "sure I'll see it again soon enough"
Great points, Matt. I agree top 4 plus Littler. I prefer deDecker to Edhouse or vdBerg and then one familiar and the surprise package of the last 3 tournaments - could be Edhouse, Wright, Anderson, Clayton or Heta...
1. Humphries
2. Littler
3. MvG
4. Cross
5. Chisnall
6. deDecker
7. Aspinall/Smith/Price
8. Anderson/Clayton/Heta
mike smith will be out the top 4 and no major. it'll be:
humphries (will stay in top 4),
mvg (will stay in top 4),
littler (will be in top 4),
dave chisnall (will be in top 4),
mike de decker (major winner),
stephen bunting (won the masters, popular),
martin schindler (i think he has some deep runs and gets into top 8, world darts angle)
damon heta (playing good darts atm, decent ranking, might improve that, popular)
littler not going to be top 4 by the time they pick prem players
@@Ekoluxxnot on current TV form but he is defending nothing so a deep run in a couple of tournaments will see him rocket up the rankings.
@@Ekoluxxi think he will be
@@Ekoluxx100-120k in three upcoming tournaments and he'll be there.
WC semis alone, or Grand Slam Final alone.
It's pretty reachable.
Picking now it's
HUMPHRIES
MVG
LITTLER
CROSS
CHIZZY (won't do anything in majors but default ranking pick)
ASP
SMITH
and I guess BUNTING from the new major winners being the most popular and highest ranked.
Anyone else needs a/or another big run. Wright and Price going out imo probably helps Smith hang on, are they going to turf out 3 world champs at once?
Are you predicting Bunting to win one? I don't recall him getting one.
@@donaldjgumpofficial5754 he won the masters early this year
6:36 - I think you’ve muddled up Dimi with Aspinall there Mr Edgar
I'm always surprised when people predict the Premier league because theres usually something that doesnt get mentioned: aside from being in the top 4 and media favouribility there's 2 words that consistently describes what the selectors look for: "national icons". If Wright's not in it, for me Anderson is locked in and they'll justify it on his form. They will want one Belgian. The Dutch player is straight forward. They'll want Price but may not get him. But most of all I think the PDCs dream is for Schindler to win a November major or reach the world's final and finally tap that German market for 17 weeks.
I think they would likely view Pikachu as having a higher ceiling
@@benwilliams8667 I agree, that they hope to be able to defend a German pick, AND they would love to have Ando back. And, if Dimi is out, deDecker is in. But, the thing is, with the 8 player format, those spots are quickly filled. Pretty sure Wright is out, unless he magically has a run in The Worlds. A quarter final, at least. And the PDC would live to see Ando back, but is he interested?
One thing is for certain: when the picks are announced, at least 8 players are going to be disappointed...
@@sonnyhenriksen284 that's true. The format doesn't do justice to the depth of talent.
@@benwilliams8667 Chris Mason did an interview on "Online darts", where he proposed a hybrid between the old and the current format : first phase, 12 players, playing 11 weeks, like "the old days", a cut off, to 8 players, who then plays a number of nights like the current format, ending with the final 4 night. Actually, he speaks of an initial phase where players meet twice, but that would be 22 weeks, plus the second phase, plus Final 4, so.....
But really, 11 nights, plus maybe 4 nights, plus Final 4 would make selection easier, and could be the best of both worlds.
@@sonnyhenriksen284 definitely sounds more appealing for people who are going to watch it every week 👍
Cross, Bunting, Dimi, Smith/Asp, Clayton and the big 3
I'd love Gary to do one more aswell doubt it though unless its a retorement tour thing
May be completely wrong, but I seem to remember MvG saying the top 4 in the world is not a 100% guarantee for the PL, so I'm not fully sure Chisnall gets in. He has been shocking on the TV this year and they tend to base it off consistent deep TV performances in combination with marketability a la Peter Wright. I like Dave but I'm not sure about the casual darts fan.
MvG, Littler, Humphries and Cross are essentially locks. I'd love to see Heta go on a run and secure Top 4 but likely to be Chizzy or a shock at the Worlds. Bunting as a fan favourite seems likely in a year where recognisable names are going to be missing. Van Den Bergh another character that the PDC enjoy. A decent run at the Worlds probably gets him in. Assuming Price turns it down (which looks likely), Aspinall probably squeaks in as a familiar face (also the most popular walk-on on the tour). So my 8 at the moment are MvG, Littler, Humphries, Cross, Chisnall, Bunting, Van Den Bergh and Aspinall/Price. Though honestly, would like to see De Decker in there just as a fresh face.
U are on point with the 4 locks !! I would still rather see De Decker in rather than Dimitri , who hasn't shown anything significant the last couple of months ( even that little title doesn't convince me yet ) .
@BlueHopi144 I'd be all for that. I just think PDC will want a 'villain' if Price isn't there and Dimi has been the new bad guy ever since the UK Open. Also he typically does quite well at the Worlds (when he doesn't draw Hempel) and that's going to be all important for the maybes.
They will never invite 2 Belgians and certainly not having no PL night in Belgium. The latter would have an immense success though. Unless Dimi get a big run (SF/F/win) on one of the remaing majors or the Worlds, Mike De Decker will be a bigger contender for a place in the PL than Dimi is.
wade should be in playing great even if he dont shake hands with canadians
Considering the fact that the premier league is basically just a glorified exhibition event, I'd hope for them to make the line up represent as many nationalities as possible, if the players earned it ofc. I predict the next top 4 to look something like this:
- Luke Humphries
- Michael van Gerwen
- Rob Cross
- Luke Littler (Yes, I actually expect Littler to have some deep runs in the upcoming events and thus make it into the top four. The lad certainly has the drive and the talent to do this)
For the remaining 4 slots I would hope the following players:
- Damon Heta (Certainly one of the best players around atm, very entertaining and likeable guy, though I admit, it would take at least a quarter final and the World's for him to be in)
- Jonny Clayton (current welsh number one and it seems he's back to playing close to his best. Overall, just an amazing guy and fans love him)
- Mike de Decker (You can argue for Dimi in this place, but I honestly don't really like watching Dimi play, especially when he starts with his usual antics. Yes, this is my bias speaking, but Mike has been playing great for a while now, won a major title and is overall just a very likeable person that people can support)
- Martin Schindler (There are probably some people who would deserve the final spot more than Martin, but I think a couple of good runs in the upcoming months could get him in. He's a great player, certainly one of the most accomplished ones this year, and including him would be a huge boost for German darts.)
Obviously this list is more based on emotions that cold, hard facts. But one can dream, right? Imho, the next Premier League is probably one of the least predictable i current years
Schildler & De Decker sure could fit in there ....as u mentioned . Mike has just said recently he rather not be in the PL Yet ...
Interesting…..I don’t think price wants it nor Anderson…..not sure de decker is ready but agree with your pick without price and de decker…..would put in heta and bunting as both box office
I agree with your list right now 👍
My premier league prediction/ who I’d like to see
Mvg
Littler
Humphries
Cross
Smith
Price
Heta
Gary Anderson
A few players I don’t want to see back in the Premier League next year are Price, Wright and van den Bergh. Price has moaned about the PL so much now that he has to put his money where his mouth is and miss out for a year. Peter Wright has hardly won a game in the last 2 editions. With van den Bergh, he just simply doesn’t fit the criteria when it comes to entertainment and watchability. Rob Cross is another one who’s very ‘meh’ imo, but he’ll probably get in through the top 4.
As long as Dimitri isn’t in, our eardrums are safe.
Interesting perspective in regards to the PL . For De Decker , i heard him say clearly (not dismissing the possibility ) he does not feel ready yet to undergo such a tough task for many weeks .... but let's see how the end of the year unfolds for these possible candidates . He sure shown some incredible improvements this year
But he also said he'll do it if he's asked. Feeling ready or not.
Ah but if he gets invited he will 100% do it. I doubt there is any other player (maybe Gerwyn) would would turn down that prospect of PL sponsorship, TV, money and media attention. Even if he doesn't feel ready, he will defo give it a go if he is asked
@@Jake_05_ most likely
Matt, do you think that the big bosses in charge would pick players that are more exciting, sell seats and sell more beer than someone who is similar in talent but boring??
Always a great watch, keep up the great work 👍.
I like what u choose, chizzy must go premier league 👍👏
Don't think Price will accept the invite as his heads not in the game currently. I agree with the 7 plus the Asp for me.
Schindi is the one of interest (sure PDC will be desperate to get him in for Europe fans). Will want a euro representative- De Decker maybe more than DVB due to freshness but 50/50 atm for me.
Sure Anderson would be in if he wants. Currently I’m guessing: MVG Luke Luke Cross Bunting Chizzy Decker Anderson/Schindi
Hands down my fav channel rn
My 8 would be:
Humphries, Littler, MVG, Cross, Chizzy, Heta, Bunting, Anderson
Heta can take Wrights - there to put on a show place. I like Wright he'd do better just focusing on the floor for a while
Think I’d take price out and put asp in he just seems in better form recently as well as more well liked than price
Depending on who has a better run, in next three majors. Anderson could be picked above Smith.
As well know, and would give a focus for events in Scotland.
Gary won’t do the premier league.
@murrayw17 possibly not, it is a big commitment
I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Price in. I know he said he doesn't want to, but the PDC will definitely want him in. Same with Wright. The big names draw the crowds even if they aren't the best players.
Top 4 + Littler are guaranteed, but Littler is likeky to be top 4 after the wc
Humphries , MVG ,Cros , littler , de decker , chisnal ,bunting end michal smith.
Matt, regarding Edhouse's selection due to his winning a major TV title. Keep in mind that said title was the European Championship, and there is a precedent for the Euro champ being overlooked for PL selection.
According to Chris Mason Sky are not keen on having Major winners in the Premier League if its not a Sky broadcast tournament.
@@DeeCee-nb6ev Ah, good point. Which is a perpetual shame for whosoever wins it each year.
Would like to see heta but doubt it
Humphries (100%)
Littler (100%)
MvG (100%)
Cross (ranking gets him in)
Chisnall (ranking gets him in)
Heta (personality + non-brit is key)
Bunting (so popular he is in with a decent run somewhere)
De Decker (major winner + they'll want another european in)
Price and Ando won't play; other British players will need to win something to force the PDC to include them. Edhouse just not marketable enough (like Gilding and Ross Smith as major winners before him who werent ranked high enough to force their hand)
PDC have shown they want international players involved which leaves door open for Schindler + Dimi imo if they have big runs.
How have your premier league predictions changed throughout the year. Would be a interesting video, madness seeing edhouse's name alongside premier league🤣
Would love edhouse to get a chank in PL but just cant see pdc doing it
I wonder about Clayton. World number 6, former prem champ, Welsh number 1 but price in ahead of him? Just think if he has a decent run somewhere they can put him as he’s in better form than price imo. Would be odd not to have number 6 in there, although they didn’t put world number 5 humphries in a few years ago 😂
Just an idea but a second leave for the premier league could be a fun addition because I’d love to see a sort of relegation / promotion added to the equation that would be so cool imo ! Because if your a football fan your know the drama this brings to football and this would add something so could play like this other league on say a another weekday
Do you think they look at Schindler? Good for the European crowd?
Is there a definitive list of Darts majors? I've seen different versions. For example is the World Series of Darts a major?
If you look at the Grand Slam qualification system it shows the definitive list of the majors and yes the world series finals is a major
It's a major, but it doesn't count for the rankings. That's probably the different version you've seen.
As of now for me:
Humphries
Littler
MVG
Cross
Clayton (outside chance but as of late picking up his form again and going further than those around him in recent tournaments)
Dimitri (deep runs in the majors so far this year + won a major)
And any other 2 players.
Don’t see Edhouse or De Decker in unless they keep their form and go on deep runs in majors. In relation to Jonny Clayton, a good run at the PC Finals and World Championship should get him in - if he ends up qualifying for GS then helps the case even more
Don’t see Ando playing in it. Not sure about James Wade. Heta and bunting potentially. Mike Smith and Nathan Aspinall it depends on their end of year form similar to Clayton. As for Chizzy, he only gets in for me if he’s in top 4 of OOM. Price doesn’t get in for me unless he wins the worlds
Dimitri wasn't in the premier league this year Matt. I think you meant to say you took out Aspinall and Wright, not Dimi and Peter.
Gotta be bunting in there for me
Off topic but i think the winner of the World Seniors Darts Championship should get a spot in the Grand Slam because lets be honest who ever wins it might not be great but they would still be capable of pulling off a few wins together it's like let's be honest you are never going to get a strange winner like Bob Anderson for example when he was in it so that's the point i was making there will always be someone winning the Seniors that is capable of winning a few games.
Of the 50/50 I would select cross and aspinall..I don’t think chizzy is ready yet and iceman needs to chill now for next season.i think bully boy must still be in..bunting should be a contender…..of your 8 I would not select chizzy or price.
To early to decide but my Lineup would be the winner of last years Premier League followed by the winner of any ranked tournament. So far the only definates would be Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Dimitri Van Den Bergh, Mike De Decker and Ritchie Edhouse with the Players Championship and Grandslam still to play.
Would you maybe make a video about the picks for pl if it was up to you?
Good idea 👍
If anyone outside the top 4 gets the the Worlds final I think they'll be given a place. Given recent majors that might be pretty much anyone.
1 Luke Humphries
2 Michael van Gerwen
3 Luke Littler
4 Rob Cross
5 Dave Chisnall
6 Mike de Decker
7 Damon Heta/Stephen Bunting
8 Michael Smith/Nathan Aspinall/Gerwyn Price (don't think Gezzy wants it)
I really don't think Price will be in. At this moment I would switch him for Aspinall. Just a gut feeling for a lack of interest from Price and that the PDC won't think he will be competitive enough. He's only 26th at the rankings in 2024. Not enough for a 50/50 player knowing his past. Aspinall could make the argument about his injury to get picked.
Only thing I'd majorly disagree with is having Aspinall that high. I doubt he's even on the shortlist
My 8 right now:
1-3: MVG, Littler, Humphries - as you said Matt, guarantees
4: Cross: Pretty much guarantee for me, projected world #3, regularly plays very good darts, insanely clutch player too
5: Dimitri: Say what you want about his antics, his record in major tournaments this year is second only to Humphries. SF at the masters, UK Open winner, SF world cup, SF Grand Prix, QF matchplay where he lost a great game to Humphries. Not to mention he's one of PDC's favourites, speaks many languages etc.
6: Chizzy: Projected world #4 and has quite a solid buffer (60+ grand ahead of Clayton, Heta, Gezzy, who are all currently not in the slam, so that gap could grow even bigger). With the guys already mentioned likely to hog the bulk of the prize money in the remaining majors I think it's pretty unlikely Chizzy doesn't end the year in the top 4, which would guarantee him a spot.
Now's when it gets interesting because I think these 6 are very likely, but after them it's a complete mystery. I don't see them including MDD or Edhouse unless they go on another very deep run or win another major, or make multiple QF+ runs in the last 3 majors (slam, pc finals, worlds). So with that said, my current predicted final 2 would be:
7: Bunting: Was unfortunate the masters was moved at the start of this year otherwise he'd have been in this year. Now a major champion, will be top 10 in the world, plays at a very high standard and last but certainly not least, he is a HUGE fan favourite. Everyone loves Bunting!
8: Clayton: This is a bit of a wild card but comes just as much because all the other contenders have been worse as because of anything Jonny has done. First, I'll go over the reasons for Jonny. He has been in decent form, projected world #5, and is now Welsh #1. Multiple time major champion, and I think very importantly, he has an exceptional record in the prem. In 3 years, he's made the playoffs every year, won it on debut and finished top of the regular season table in year 2.
Now, let's look at the other contenders:
Gando: Might be in my 8 over Clayton but I genuinely believe he would decline the offer, and he hasn't done much in the majors regardless.
M Smith: He might be my personal favourite player but he has simply not done enough, if we're being completely honest he didn't really deserve it this year either but got in for his world ranking. He got into the 2024 prem from his 2022 accomplishments. His 2024 season has been better than 2023 but still not enough so far to justify inclusion.
Gezzy: Constantly slags off the prem to the media, poor record in majors this year, poor record in the prem.
Asp: Struggled with injury, poor record in majors, barely qualified for euros and currently barely qualifying for pc finals.
Wright: Been crap most of the year, awful pl record.
Heta: Poor record in majors and cringe af walk ons that I'm not convinced fans really enjoy.
Wade: Might be closer than people think, has had a superb record in majors the past 12 months, still will need multiple more deep runs or a major trophy to get into the conversation.
MDD/Edhouse: As I said earlier, too low in the rankings.
Ando said that he doesn't want to be in PL even if PDC asked. He wants a break from travelling every Thursday
@@majkelikas-ym5iu thats correct . De Decker feels he is not ready either .....
Premier League is so incredibly boring. Same players bar the odd one or two each year, same matches week in, week out. Obviously won't be binned, but should be.
Humphries
MVG
Littler
Cross
Heta
Anderson
M Smith
+1
Think heta breaks into top 4 with a deep run in the players or worlds
It would be easier to name those who won't be in! Price, Chisnall, Bunting, Clayton for starter's
Humphries
MVG
Smith
Cross
Littler
Heta
DeDecker
Chisnall
Agree mostly, but I feel Bunting and Dimi are part of the 50/50s, and I think at least Bunting will be in instead of one of Chizzy/Price/Smith.
Also, we know you're not a fan of Damon Heta's walk-ons, but I've also heard that the higher ups in the PDC themselves apparently don't rate him very highly and view it all as a bit silly and feel he's trying too hard to fabricate a 'character'.
I feel it's quite telling when looking at the Euro Tour schedules and who they put on the afternoon and evening sessions to judge how much the PDC actually values certain players.
Do you think he has any chance of being picked if he doesn't reach the Top 4 or a major final?
Damn that's a very good point on Damon Heta, didn't cross my mind yet. That's actually really true
@@sarah2604sm agreed
This is what I think. As It Stands for 2025 Premier League Darts Lower 3 players are in order to drop 1. (Michael van Gerwen or Martin Schindler) 2. Michael Smith 3. Stephen Bunting
1. Stephen Bunting
2. Dimitri Van den Bergh
3. Luke Littler
4. Michael Smith
5. Luke Humphries
6. Mike De Decker
7. Ritchie Edhouse
8. Michael van Gerwen or Martin Schindler
This is literally the only interesting thing about the Premier league.....guessing who will be in it. When it actually starts, I couldn't care less about it!
Are we certain of it being 8 players again. There were rumours that the PDC were looking at changing the format next year
Don’t think price would do it.
I would replace him with Bunting
Humpries, Littler, MVG, De decker, Cross, Chisnall, GS winner + Gary would be a great lineup
Not sure if Gary would do it, huge reason he feel out of love for darts was travelling for the PL
@@omgHeadshots yik, but it will for sure be a better goodbye to premier league than his last PL campaign
As Anderson did'nt enjoy the travelling last time, so maybe Wade.
@@jackmitchinson5282 yeah but like he didint enjoy sure, but he even played ET's this season so maybe it changed we'll see
Gary prefers to reduce travel ......
Littler, humphries, mvg. Chizz. Cross, smith, bunting and heta.
Think price doesnt get in as hes expressed a hate towards it when it finished earlier this year and i think de decker misses out too id say aspinall gets in and also bunting in their places
Or maybe clayton with a good run in the worlds
Humphries
Littler
MVG
Cross
Price
Heta
Smith
De Decker
Can't see heta in it bunting a maybe
I wouldn't say Littler is for 100% in pl cuz he is not doing great in the ranking majors, if he goes out round 1/groupstage in the next majors aswell I don't think he should be there.
Humphries van gerwen littler de decker edhouse smith aspinall cross
You took out wright and aspinall not van der Bergh
Yep, I was confused too.
Price out Heta in
My eight would be:
Top 4 OOM: Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, Rob Cross, Dave Chisnall
Reigning Champion: Luke Littler
Major Winners: Dimitri Van den Bergh, Mike De Decker
Other: Johnny Clayton
If someone else wins the Worlds then put them in instead of Clayton.
Personally I don't consider the Euro Champs to be a Major hence no Edhouse - yes it is on TV but that just makes it a Premier event. The only Majors in my mind are the UK Open, Matchplay, Grand Prix and World Championship.
This said I wouldn't be surprised if the PDC continue to choose their little clique plus a couple of others with the final line-up being Humphries, Littler, MVG, Price, Wright, Heta, M.Smith and Clayton
Personally I don't think DvdB and MDD will both be part of the PL, since I don't think the PDC wants two players from a "small" darts country
@@RyanLucroy personally I don't think the PDC will choose either to be honest - they are only included in my list as they are both Major winners (Humphries currently holding the other two Majors is already in as no 1 on the OOM). As they love Germany so much with all the ET events being played there, Porter and Co may even surprise us all and put in either Schindler or Clemens even though neither has really done much (excluding Schindi's two ET wins)
Grand Slam not a major?
@@donaldjgumpofficial5754 personally I don't think it is although there could be an argument to include it as one since it became a ranked event - but Humphries is the current holder of that as well at the moment and he is already guaranteed in the line-up anyway
@@mikecowell6383 It hasn't happened yet this year.
I can't see price in it
'Mike' Smith😮🤔
Chizzy and Bunting pushing for positions?? MVG,Cool Hand,and The Nuke only 3 certs!!! Rob Cross should make the cut?? De Decker is a poss?? Bully boy still should cut the Mustard?? Will all change come January???
If you asked me a month ago I would have said Josh Rock I was exepcting a monster run and being a dynamic Prem Esque player that I'd back him. But hes been poor and with the shocking MDD Edhouse majors I am lost. I think rn I'd go for 2 Lukes, MVG, Smith, Asp, Chizzy, Cross (Assuming Asp and Smith make QF+ in worlds) then 1 left I'm torn on De Decker or Heta as I think Schindler isnt your Prem face and Edhouse I love him but I just feel like he's ranked way too low.
I am sticking with Asp and Smith for sure as the Prem is about big names and entertainment which is why I'd also probably back Heta, but I think given how close this all is the worlds I think decides this
Josh rock could be interesting yes
Humphries
MVG
Cross
Chizzy
Heta
Bunting
De Decker
Dimitri
No thought no preference, here is the top 8 in 2024 money won
1 Luke Humphries 486.5
2 Michael van Gerwen 266
3 Dimitri Van den Bergh 220.5
4 Mike De Decker 215.25
5 Ritchie Edhouse 212.5
6 Dave Chisnall 207
7 Luke Littler 202.5
8 Stephen Bunting 183
This would be a crazy lineup
interesting facts , thanks for that list ! 2 Belgians in the top 8 is crazy & great
Gerwyn Price is out of my PL list and Nathan Aspinall is in.
Why the fuck is Asp in?
Agree on all except Chisnall and Price. Chisnall unlikely to hold a top 4 spot given poor TV form. Price can't justify a pick on dire form. Replace with Heta and Bunting.
Get The Adonis Steve Beaton in.
I think they should start to include some exclusions for 1 or 2 years, if you come in the bottom few in the premier league. So say bottom 2 cant qualify no matter what they do for 2 years or something like that. would spice things up a bit
Possibly an idea but I would add the caveat that if they win a TV major then that supersedes the relegation exclusion.
Possible that the newly crowned world champ could be excluded from the pl due to your rule
@@arcticchrisx7724 some ppl dont get in if they win a major unless its one thats on sky
@ that is true but if it was all about merit then you would just take the top 8 in the world rankings and be done with it. There has always been a mix of competing factors in the shakeout that determine the final lineup and naturally it is going to be very subjective.
@@carstenthonnissen9692 well yes - but i'm not saying I aint flexible on the rules I proposed lol Being bottom 2 should incur some penalty
I won't do who I think will be in, I'll do who I'd pick if I were them
DEFINITELY
Luke Humpries
Luke Littler
PROBABLY
Michael Van Gerwen
Rob Cross
HOPEFULLY
Gary Anderson
Dave Chisnall
Damon Heta
Nathan Aspinall
Wessel Njman an outside shot....
Maybe noppert
Humphries
van Gerwen
Littler
Chisnall
De Decker
Cross
M. Smith
Bunting
Can assure you here and now, they will be 1 change and that is Peter wright not being in it
Humphries
MVG
Cross
Littler
Smith
Aspinall
Bunting
Chizzy
Humpthries
Van Gerwen
Cross
Chisnall
Littler
Price
Van Den Bergh
De Decker
Fav one yet, hope your correct ❤
Wessel nijman will win one of the big 3 competition players grand slam or worlds then he will be one of the 8 players in premier league