Darts commentator Dan Dawson picks five players to watch at The Masters

The first major of the new season takes place this weekend in the form of The Masters and Dan Dawson, PDC commentator has picked out five players to watch.

Dawson begins with Michael van Gerwen: "No longer world number one, with only two televised titles to his name in the last 12 months, Van Gerwen has assured everyone that he will reclaim his rightful place at the top of the rankings."

"While there is no ranking money on offer at The Masters, victory would be a signal of intent."

He is looking forward to also seeing how Price copes with the pressure of being World Number One. "The Masters would be a welcome addition, and would match Peter Wright's feat of winning the first two televised tournaments of last year.

The question is, can he still perform consistently at these high levels whilst being the leading figure in the sport?"

First major for Ratajski?

He also mentions a potential surprise name in the running for the title in Milton Keynes in Krzysztof Ratajski.

"He is finally starting to show his capabilities on the biggest stages of the PDC," added Dawson.

"At one point he was the fourth-favourite to go on and win the world title, although Stephen Bunting ended his hopes.

This will be a debut at The Masters for "The Polish Eagle" and his route is not an easy one (starting with Simon Whitlock with Peter Wright to follow), but he is a player whose consistent excellence will be rewarded at some point in a major tournament."

Fourth is Glen Durrant and after a torrid end to the year flashes of brilliance were there at the World's and Dawson believes he will be one to watch if back to his best.

"The Premier League champion has been largely overlooked since winning his first televised title in the PDC, primarily because a bout of Covid saw him struggling to reach his usual brilliance.

There were signs of a return to form at the World Championship though, and if "Duzza" is back to normal, then you can expect him to win a lot of games in big tournaments in 2021.

If he can overcome Mervyn King (who is enjoying something of a renaissance himself) then Durrant could well be favourite to beat world number four Rob Cross in the second round. It is a huge opportunity for the Teesider to remind everyone of his quality."

Finally Ian White who Dawson believes would be a welcome addition to the Premier League.

"After years of being overlooked, and with a Premier League spot up for grabs, it would be incredible if he forced his way into the lineup. I, for one, believe he would be a superb addition."