Earlier this week, the PDC announced the much anticipated (and debated) 2025 Premier League line-up.
Darts fans often don’t get to watch as much darts as they’d like throughout the year so for the 17 weeks that the Premier League takes place from February – May, it usually makes for good viewing.
Four places are always given automatically to the top four in the Order of Merit following the World Championship each year.
Luke Humphries, Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen and Rob Cross took those spots for 2025.
The next four places are ‘wildcard’ picks.
They are selected by the PDC and there is no set criteria for these selections. Prior years performance, ability to perform on the big stage, fan following and other factors make up this decision.
Stephen Bunting, Gerwyn Price, Chris Dobey and Nathan Aspinall are the four wildcard picks for 2025.
As there is no set criteria, there is always debate about who deserves the four wildcard places, but this year has been debated much more than in previous years…
Mike De Decker won the 2024 World Grand Prix and was a favourite by many to get a position, but he instead made history by becoming the first player NOT to be selected for Premier League inclusion after winning the title.
Surprisingly, De Decker has not taken the snub lightly and publicly blasted the PDC calling the decision ‘scandalous’.
Read more ➡️ Mike De Decker says PDC are ‘scandalous’ for Premier League decisions
He not only took aim at the PDC but even called out some of the players selected ahead of him. Nathan Aspinall being one player in particular.
De Decker said in an interview:
“They did not deserve it.
“Suddenly they reach the quarter-finals at the World Championships and they are there. Aspinall is there with his walk-on purely for the entertainment.”
The Asp has since responded to this personal jibe.
SEE MORE PREMIER LEAGUE ON DECENT DARTS
👉 Biggest losers from the 2025 Premier League Darts line-up
👉 5 darts players who need a BIG year in 2025
Nathan Aspinall Hits Back at Mike De Decker
After being criticised by Mike De Decker over his Premier League inclusion, Nathan Aspinall was asked by Metro what he thought about De Decker’s comments,
The Asp responded:
“Is that what he said?
“I haven’t seen it because I’ve come off social media, I still have my accounts there but I’m not on it because the abuse was getting ridiculous.
“I’m disappointed he’s said that because I get on with Mike, but if he wants to be in then get higher up the rankings.
“He can count himself unlucky because he’s won a big major, but he’s ranked 24 in the world and went out early in the Worlds.
“There were a lot of people in contention but no one really stood out. I thought I was 50-50 to get in. I’m buzzing to be the one to get the call and look forward to getting going.”
That was a professional response from Aspinall and he does raise a fair point.
Mike De Decker is hard done by to miss out but he is ranked 24th and if he was included, just as many people would then say how has he got in with that ranking position 🤷🏻♂️
The PDC are yet to comment on De Decker’s outburst but one thing is for sure, he’s done himself no favours with the league or fellow players with these recent comments.
It’s likely also going to impact his future consideration for the tournament as a result!
Read Next
➡️ Nathan Aspinall reveals ‘simple reason’ why no-one has the fear factor in darts anymore