“I still love competing just as much as I ever did” – Simon Whitlock faces a tough task to defend his title in the ANZ Premier League

After the success of the inaugural edition, eight players from Australia and New Zealand again line up for the competition. Spread over six nights, from 26.09.2026 to 31.10.2026, the champion will be crowned. The action is broadcast live in Australia on Kayo Sports, in New Zealand on Sky, and worldwide on PDCTV.

The opening night takes place at the AIS Arena in Canberra. That is familiar ground for Whitlock. The 57-year-old Australian also launched his campaign there last year, although that night did not go entirely to plan. “It was great in Canberra last year,” Whitlock told pdc.tv as he looked ahead. “The crowd were amazing; I don’t think I played too well there, but hopefully I will kick off with a much better start this time!"

Whitlock, who will also compete at the upcoming World Series of Darts Finals in Amsterdam, is putting in the hours ahead of the ANZ Premier League. “I’ve been messing around with my darts again, but I’ve been putting a lot of hours in on the practice board, so hopefully I’ll be ready."

Motivation is certainly not an issue for the former World Championship finalist. “I still love it [competing] just as much as I ever did, and I cannot wait to do it all again.”

On each of the first five nights of the ANZ Premier League, a knockout event is played. Based on performances, the eight contenders earn ranking points. After five nights, the top four players qualify for Finals Night.

Whitlock made a slow start last year. On opening night in Canberra he lost in the quarter-finals to Raymond Smith. In the following weeks, however, the Australian recovered and still forced his way onto the final night.

There, Whitlock first dealt with Jonny Tata before beating Smith to be crowned the first-ever ANZ Premier League champion. Despite his impressive résumé, he counts that triumph among the finest moments of his long career.

“It meant a lot to me,” Whitlock said. “It was like winning a major title for me, and to be the first winner of the ANZ Premier League, it was one of the best feelings I’ve ever had in darts.”

Whitlock was for years one of the standard-bearers of darts in Oceania. The Hornsby-born thrower won eighteen PDC titles and spent more than a decade among the sport’s elite. He also lifted the European Championship and the World Cup of Darts.

Whitlock believes the ANZ Premier League can play a key role in developing new talent from Australia and New Zealand. He points in particular to Brody Klinge and Raymond Smith, who impressed during the World Series events in 2026.

“I think the impact is going to be massive,” said Whitlock.“Just seeing players like Brody and Raymond coming through and performing so well during the World Series events – you can see their progress. Their experience of playing on the big stage is really paying off, and they’re now showing how good they are."

That also means Whitlock faces a tough title defence. As reigning champion, he knows his rivals are eager to take him down. “I have a target on my back. I’m sure Raymond will want to get revenge on me because he was probably the best player last year, at least up until Finals Night. Brody will be after me too, as well as Ben Robb and Jonny Tata, so every game is going to be difficult.”

There is plenty on the line again this year. Whitlock’s overall win last season earned him qualification for the World Darts Championship. The 2026 champion will also secure a place at Alexandra Palace. In addition, the winner receives a ticket for the Grand Slam of Darts in November.

“That’s huge motivation for everyone,” Whitlock admitted. “For some of the guys, this is an important springboard. I’d love to play both tournaments again and keep fighting for my spot.”

Whitlock therefore expects the battle for the title to be even tougher than in the first edition. “I’m really looking forward to it. One thing I know for sure: it will definitely be harder this year.”