As in past years, the Masters field consists of the top 24 players in the world rankings. The numbers 9 to 24 will compete in the first round, after which the eight winners will take on the top eight on the PDC Order of Merit.
This year's field of competitors consists of only four debutants. Damon Heta is the highest qualified newcomer. Damon Heta is currently ranked number sixteen in the world.
Ross Smith also makes his first appearance in Milton Keynes. 'Smudger' owes his spot to his surprise title at the European Championship in October. Callan Rydz, the number 23 on the PDC Order of Merit, is the third debutant as well as Danny Noppert, the UK Open champion.