22 June 2024 , 05:00
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Wayne Mardle has called for the PDC to return to its old format for Premier League Darts.
Mardle, a three-time major finalist with the Professional Darts Corporation, expressed his frustration with the frequent format changes which have left players and fans alike scratching their heads in recent years.
During an interview on MDA Events' YouTube channel, via the Express, the iconic Hawaii 501 said: "It's a tough one, it's had four or five, maybe even six different kids of alterations hasn't it? We started with seven players, then it went to eight - then it was draws, no draws.
"Then it was knockout, then it was first to six, then it was first to seven. And I played in a lot of those, I didn't know what day it was anyway. The format, for me, works for eight players, but I'd still like to see it go back to a league phase.
"As in just play five games of a night, so make it 10 players, or now you could actually make it 12. You could have six games, best of 11. That would fit."
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When questioned about possibly including six games for 12 players with a draw element, Mardle said: "Yes. If you have six players and you say 'Right it's first to seven' it's a possibility. But the draw element changes lots of things because of the extra legs."
Any modifications to the present PLD style of play would be a game-changer for teenage sensation Luke 'The Nuke' Littler' - especially considering his phenomenal performance in his 2024 debut.
The change would impact reigning champion Luke Littler, who'll defend his crown in 2025 ((Image: Getty))The 17-year-old topped the leaderboard with a smashing 40 points, taking down seasoned pros Nathan Aspinall, Gerwyn Price, Michael van Gerwen, and Rob Cross. Come the play-offs, Littler dominated a semi-final against Michael Smith.
He sealed a 10-5 win over Bully Boy while Luke Humphries claimed victory over Van Gerwen with the same scoreline. In the ultimate showdown, despite Humphries' valiant effort, Littler clinched the championship with an 11-7 win.
He did so in style, stunning fans with a slick nine-darter along the way. His triumph means he'll be back in the Premier League again next year to defend his crown, all being well.