Michael van Gerwen, Luke Littler and Luke Humphries among early winners at Players Championship 27

Michael van Gerwen, Luke Littler and Luke Humphries have secured a spot in the last 64 after the first set of matches at the 27th Players Championship tournament of the season.

Van Gerwen made his first appearance after his surprising defeat in the first round of the World Grand Prix against Daryl Gurney. 'Mighty Mike' washed away this loss by beating Dylan Slevin. A 14-darter and three 15-darters gave Van Gerwen a 4-1 lead and eventually the 35-year-old from The Netherlands then won the match 6-4.

Elsewhere, Danny Jansen provided some good resistance to reigning world champion Luke Humphries, but eventually the recent World Grand Prix runner up secured the 6-4 victory. Luke Littler was also too strong for his opponent as the teen sensation downed Jules van Dongen 6-2.

Stephen Bunting beat World Masters champion Wesley Plaisier won 6-1. Gian Veen and Dave Chisnall were the only top-16 players eliminated in the first round. 'Chizzy' lost 6-5 to Madars Razma after a deciding leg. Top players such as Gerwyn Price, Rob Cross, Chris Dobey and Josh Rock did qualify for the second round of this tournament.

A total of 125,000 pounds in prize money is distributed at each Players Championship tournament. The winner of the event will receive a check for 15,000 pounds.