The PDC announced the participant field for the Premier League Darts 2026 on Monday, causing discussions with the re-nomination of Stephen Bunting and the non-consideration of James Wade and Danny Noppert.
Former player and TV expert Wayne Mardle stated on Sky Sports : “I’m a little surprised about Stephen Bunting. He had a pretty decent year, but in my opinion not as good as some others. He can still consider himself lucky.”
Stephen Bunting returns to Premier League Darts
Mardle added: “The Premier League is tough, we know that. You can’t deny anyone their abilities, but Stephen Bunting will be the one breathing a sigh of relief.”
Bunting returns to the Premier League
Bunting returns despite finishing last in the previous Premier League season, where he lost the first eight matches.
He also surprisingly exited the recent World Championship in the third round against James Hurrell. However, this is countered by six tournament victories in 2025.
Bunting himself reacted with satisfaction on social media, where many fans, in turn, were surprised by his call-up: “I can’t express how delighted I am to have been selected for this year’s Premier League. I admit the end of the year wasn’t particularly good, but with six tournament victories in 2025, I would have been disappointed not to have been chosen.”
Great disappointment for Wade
James Wade’s absence again caused great disappointment. The 42-year-old reached the finals of the UK Open and the World Matchplay last season, won a Players Championship title, and finished the season as world number eleven.
Wade wrote: “Hard work pays off… does it really?” For the British tabloid Sun , it was a “barely veiled jab,” while other portals identified an “outraged” reaction.
Wade added: “Disappointed, but proud of the work I’ve put in this year. Missing out hurts, but it’s part of the journey.” At the same time, he announced: “Back to work. 2026, I’ll be ready.”
James Wade misses out on the Premier League again
Premier League Without Noppert
Danny Noppert is also among the prominent absentees. The Dutchman reached four major semi-finals in 2025 and also commented on social media: “Unfortunately, I was not nominated for this year’s Premier League.”
At the same time, he expressed gratitude for the support, writing: “Nevertheless, it truly means a lot to me to see more and more people speaking positively about me and to see my name mentioned as a potential candidate.”
Noppert concluded: “For now, I’m just focusing on having another good season.”