Should PDC introduce 2nd tier to Premier League Darts? Gian van Veen backs format change: "There are more than eight great players in the PDC"

The Premier League Darts has, for several years now, been contested by eight players. During the regular phase, they face each other over sixteen nights to try and qualify for the play-offs. The top four then battle it out in the play-offs for the prestigious title. Is it time for a change to this tired format however?

The record holder for most Premier League Darts titles remains Michael van Gerwen, with seven to his name. 'Mighty Mike' is aiming for an eighth crown this season but still has work to do to secure his place in the play-offs. After twelve of the sixteen regular-season nights, the 36-year-old Dutchman currently sits fifth in the standings — level on points with fourth-placed Nathan Aspinall, but behind on leg difference.

At the top of the table meanwhile, the fight for the win in the league phase looks like being a two-up dual between world number one Luke Humphries and the World champion Luke Littler.

As touched upon often in the past, the current Premier League Darts format has faced growing criticism in recent years. Because of the growing strength in depth of the sport, one of the proposed changes is the introduction of a second division, from which in form players could be promoted to the top flight and struggling players could be relegated down to.

In a recent interview with TalkSport, Gian van Veen, himself a player that is forcing his way into Premier League Darts contention, was asked about the prospect of a second tier to darts travelling roadshow.

"I think the schedule is already really packed of course, but I think it would be amazing viewing, because there are more than eight great players in the PDC," the Dutchman answers. "So I think it would be great for the viewers as well so why not? It'll be down to the PDC of course, but I'd be open to playing in it!"