James Wade’s blunt message after missing out on Premier League Darts | Other | Sport

James Wade has shared his disappointment after being omitted from the 2026 Premier League Darts line-up. While the 2009 champion was thought to be in contention for the PDC tournament, he ultimately missed out alongside the likes of Danny Noppert, Rob Cross, Ryan Searle and Nathan Aspinall.

After the news broke that he was not to be included, Wade wasted no time in taking to social media to share a blunt statement. He wrote on X: “Hard work pays off…really? Disappointed, but proud of the work I put in this year chasing one goal getting back to the Premier League. Missing out hurts, but that’s part of the journey.

While many fans are excited by the line-up, Wayne Mardle couldn’t help pick problem with the inclusion of Bunting. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “I’m slightly surprised at Stephen Bunting. He’s had a decent enough year but not as good as some in my opinion. He can consider himself a little fortunate.

“He played okay in the Premier League last year but results didn’t go well, especially for the first eight weeks when he didn’t win a game. You can’t argue with any of them in terms of their ability and what they are capable of but Bunting will be the one who will breathe a huge sigh of relief. Danny Noppert has been really unlucky. He’s reached the semi-finals of four majors.

“Nathan Aspinall had a squeak but Noppert I feel – what’s he got to do? He won the UK Open a few years ago. Since then he’s got better and better. Maybe he’s got to reach a final or win one, but Stephen hasn’t done that this year. With the performances of last year, I thought that would have gone against him rather than for him but he’s got a massive following!”

Premier League Darts runs on Thursdays between February and May.