Rod Harrington shares vision for World Cup of Darts and Premier League

PDC Director Harrington spoke to Live Darts in the aftermath of the latter. Amid the World Cup of Darts excitement, a number of players proposed that more emphasis be put on the doubles format. Thanks to a number of one-sided games after the first round, there was a lack of doubles action throughout large swathes of some sessions. The former world number one admitted that while he wasn't a big fan, more doubles involvement could be considered.

"At the moment, no talk at all [on all-pairs format]. Whether we do at the next board meeting, I don't know," he said.

"I understand why certain people are doing that. I don't think the standard would be as good.

"That's not to say, perhaps, we won't give it a try.

"I think the general punter at home would prefer to see Michael van Gerwen against Gary Anderson, not four people all together."

Another talking point, looking to the Premier League Darts, was the 'contenders' initiative. After Gary Anderson dropped out of the Premier League, nine players got the chance to replace him. It proved to be a roaring success, and one Harrington claims to have predicted well in advance.
"The contenders, funnily enough - I sent out an email two years ago saying we should have eight players and two contenders every week, which got shouted down.

"When Gary Anderson, with me pushing young players...everyone agreed to give it a go."

A number of young talents, including Chris Dobey and Luke Humphries, put in strong performances as contenders. It was exactly the shot in the arm the showpiece exhibition series needed, according to Harrington.

"I think it worked perfectly. Instead of the mundane, week in, week out, it added a spark," said the 61-year-old.

"Every one of them stood up to the mark, which was great."