Price could snub Premier League return

GERWYN PRICE has revealed he could turn down a Premier League place next year.

The Markham thrower admits becoming a grandfather could persuade him to skip the 2027 roadshow after climbing back to World No.4 with his run to the World Matchplay final.

Price, 41, defeated Gian van Veen 17-10 to leapfrog fellow Welshman Jonny Clayton in the Order of Merit.

It continues an impressive season for Price, who has already won two ranking titles and reached the semi-finals of the UK Open and World Masters.

If he stays in the top four, the former world champion is expected to secure an automatic Premier League invitation.

But Price insists life away from the oche has become a bigger priority following the news that his daughter is expecting a baby at the end of January.

He said: "Possibly. That could be on the cards. We'll see how the back end of the season goes.

"My daughter's pregnant and she's due at the end of January. I've got other priorities and things going on at home, so I could miss the Premier League if I'm invited.

"We'll see what happens later in the season."

The Iceman also revealed his ranking is no longer his main focus.

He added: "Honestly, rankings don't really matter to me. Being in the top four is nice because that's what people want for the Premier League.

"I'm not too bothered about that anymore if I'm honest. I've got other things on my mind and I'm loving darts at the minute.

"But yeah, being Welsh number one is probably more important to me than being world number four."

Price now faces Luke Littler at the Winter Gardens as he bids to win his first televised major title since the 2022 World Series Finals.

He continued: "I felt like my form was good, but I hadn't had very good preparation.

"I felt like I could win the tournament, but I needed more ProTours and European Tour events before coming here.

"I don't think I was ever a million miles away from winning it. I just needed a bit more confidence and better preparation.

“I'm in a major final and I haven't played anywhere near my best in any of these games.

"I know I've got a lot more in the tank and if that comes out then I'll lift the trophy. If not, I'll battle all the way."

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning