“What we did in Saudi Arabia is different, but we’re not going to copy it everywhere” – 'WWE walk-ons' won’t become the norm as PDC turn to other sports for inspiration

During the Saudi Arabia Darts Masters 2026 in Riyadh, Online Darts spoke at length with Jamie Banks, Head of Broadcast at the PDC. The conversation focused on change, innovation and, above all, why darts on television must look different in the coming years.

A new era has begun with the broadcasting deal with ITV. Not just in terms of rights, but especially in content. “It’s a really exciting time for everyone involved in the sport,” says Banks. “The new deal has kicked in and it means we’ve got a bit more control over the product and the production."

According to Banks, standing still is not an option. "We’re genuinely trying to evolve the product, move things on, not stand still, and improve the way people enjoy the sport on TV. That ambition is visible in almost every aspect of the new broadcasts: from the make-up of the presenting team to graphics, analysis and even walk-ons.

One of the first striking choices was appointing Pete Graves as presenter, known from Sky Sports. A name that was not at the top of the list initially. "He wasn’t necessarily on the radar for a long time, but he got pushed towards us. I had a conversation with him and immediately thought, “Actually, this is the guy.” We wanted people with experience in the sport, but his knowledge really impressed me, and so did his desire to help us improve the product."

That decision also made it possible to deploy Gabriella Partington on the World Series. "That gives us two things: someone with loads of broadcasting experience and a strong understanding of the sport, and someone who’s still learning and getting a foot in the door. She’s been around darts for a long time, but this gives her a chance to grow and build with us."

The most talked-about move is without doubt Wayne Mardle’s switch to ITV. “That conversation was really fun,” says Banks. "He’s fully on board and genuinely looking forward to getting involved." For Banks, bringing in Wayne Mardle is more than a personnel change as they look to level the playing field between Sky Sports and ITV. "Everyone loves Wayne, and it’s a great opportunity for us to use him across different events."

Banks understands the varied reactions. "We’ve seen the comments, and I completely understand that people will have differing opinions — that’s just the nature of it." He likens it to football: It’s like supporting a football team. You might think the manager should stay, I might think he should go. It doesn’t mean one of us cares more." What he hopes for most is understanding. "Even if they don’t like a decision, I hope they can step back and see the bigger picture and say, 'I get why they’ve done that.'"

For darts fans, another dream beckons: Chris Mason and Wayne Mardle at the same desk. “That idea really excites me,” says Banks without hesitation. "They’re two of the best broadcasters in the sport. They have very different styles, but that doesn’t mean they can’t work together."

Banks believes it’s time to move away from old labels. "We now have the freedom to say, 'That person is best for this role,' and bring everyone together to create a team people can really enjoy."

New names are joining the commentary team as well. Mark Wilson and Ian Danter are making their debut at the highest TV level. On Wilson, Banks is clear: "We’ve worked with him for a couple of years and straight away I thought he had something. His knowledge of the sport has grown massively, and as a broadcaster he’s superb." He even calls Danter 'a real steal.' "He’s a brilliant broadcaster with plenty of experience. He’s done darts on talkSPORT, and while TV is different to radio, he’s absolutely superb."

The same goes for Dan Dawson. “It wasn’t even a debate,” Banks laughs. “He’s one of the best broadcasters I’ve ever worked with and knows more about the sport than anybody else.” At the same time, the PDC is wary of overexposure. “We don’t want a ‘Dan Dawson Show’. Variety keeps it fresh.”

With former players like Glen Durrant, the PDC wants to add more depth. “It’s really important. The sport changes, we all know that. Durrant has been involved in the game recently and also has broadcasting experience, so he was a pretty easy decision.”

That fits a broader ambition: better analysis. “In the past we mostly talked about matches,” Banks says. “Now we want to show what’s happening.” Luke Littler’s rise has changed the audience. “We have a younger demographic, a new crowd. That calls for explanation and context.”

The new graphics, introduced at tournaments in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, sparked debate. Banks remains calm. “I personally approved them because I think they’re good. They provide a different look and are aimed at a broader audience.” He knows social media is no yardstick. “If you read comments all day, you get nowhere. Change takes time. Give it a chance.”

For further innovation, the PDC is deliberately looking beyond darts. “We’re taking elements from other sports. Formula 1 is very consistent in its look and feel. Cricket, and even The Hundred, show how graphics can evolve.”

WWE is also an inspiration, especially for walk-ons. “What we did here in Saudi Arabia is different, but we won’t copy it everywhere. We also have to consider the audience in the arena.” At events like the PDC World Matchplay, Banks sees opportunities. “With lighting and cameras, you can do a lot without losing the sport’s identity.”

Banks stresses that the new direction is not a reckoning with the past. “ITV has done fantastic work over the past twenty years. We’re not tearing anything down. We’re building on that success, but want to make it better.”

Finally, he addresses the fans. "The key thing is that we’re listening — to staff, talent, and fans. We’re going to make mistakes and there will be differing opinions. All I ask is that people understand we’re trying to create a more rounded experience for everyone. Keep voicing opinions — I’m just fortunate that mine end up on the TV."