"You would then open the door to something very tricky" - Criticism of possible Premier League invitation for Beau Greaves

Matt Edgar has questioned a possible invitation of Beau Greaves to the Premier League Darts. The former professional darts player argues that the PDC is taking a questionable step if Greaves were to be included in the touring darts circus next year. According to Edgar, the British darts star deserves recognition for her development, but her current performance on the ProTour does not yet warrant promotion to one of the most prestigious events on the calendar.

Greaves, who recently secured her Tour Card for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, impressed with a place in the final of the Youth World Championship after a handsome victory over world champion Luke Littler. In addition, she showed during the Grand Slam of Darts with averages above 100 that she can challenge big names. Still, Edgar feels that a Premier League selection at this time would be premature.

"As a former player, I look at this from the perspective at the oche," Edgar said in the Mission Darts podcast. "I look at the stakes players show on the tour to earn the chance to get into the Premier League. That commitment is partially ignored when you invite someone who has not had a Tour Card so far and has only played six ProTours this season."

From that, Greaves earned £5,500 in prize money, an amount Edgar says does not adequately reflect what it would normally take to force a Premier League ticket. "You would then open the door to something very tricky," he continued. "Can she come along? Absolutely. But the statistics suggest she's not even among the best 64 in the world at the moment."

Edgar is referring to Greaves' season average. "Her average right now is 78. If you were to rank everyone on that, she's virtually 78th. We know she can peak, but right now the numbers don't show she belongs at that level."

The 39-year-old Englishman emphasises that his comments stem from diligence and not criticism of Greaves herself. "I am a big fan of Beau Greaves and of her development," he states. "But some names are mentioned too early as potential Premier League players."

Instead, Edgar considers it more likely that the PDC will deploy her in the World Series next year. "I think we're going to see her in one, maybe several World Series events. That would be a more logical move at this point."

In addition, Edgar points out the level of commitment expected of players on the ProTour. Greaves was leading on the Challenge Tour, but missed several opportunities to compete in regular ProTour matches. "She had the opportunity to support the system, but didn't," Edgar said. "Again, I'm a big fan of hers, but that has to be factored in."

Greaves showed at the Grand Slam that she can be one of the top performers. She lost 5-4 to both Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson, despite excellent averages. She did manage a 5-3 victory over Niko Springer, but third place in her pool was insufficient for qualification for the last sixteen.

With her Tour Card for 2026-27 and impressive performances against the establishment, Greaves proves she is technically ready for the highest level. However, Edgar emphasises that participation in the Premier League is not just about peak performance, but proven consistency and commitment within the PDC circuit.

Discussion about her potential participation in the invitational is expected to continue, especially as public interest grows. The PDC traditionally does not make its decision on the composition of the Premier League field until after the World Championship.

For Greaves, the focus for now is on the Youth World Championship, where she can take the title and thus further sharpen her status. Should she convince again on the podium in 2025, the move to a larger role within the television circuit seems inevitable. Edgar only questions the pace at which that step will be taken.