PL Darts: Whitlock double-header bolsters hope of Wade overhaul

As the latest renewal of an exhilarating Premier League Darts campaign reaches its latter stages, much has already been determined heading into the final night of regular league action.

But plenty of betting opportunities remain within the final round of fixtures, and Simon Whitlock’s pursuit of finals night qualification could yet lead to a payout.

James Wade simply needs to justify his 11/4 odds for victory in Newcastle to be assured of a play-off spot at London’s O2 Arena.

But given that the Machine faces the legendary Phil Taylor at the Metro Arena, a win for the Power at 4/7 looks likeliest, and can open the door for Whitlock to snatch the final qualifying berth.

Robert Thornton remains in the hunt for fourth place too, and would further crank up the pressure on Wade if he can dispose of Raymond van Barneveld at 2/1 before the Aldershot thrower takes to the oche.

But with two games to play on the night, Whitlock can prove the ultimate beneficiary of a Wade defeat, firstly by overcoming Adrian Lewis at 10/11.

Lewis has never got going in this year’s tournament, and sits rock-bottom of the league table with only seven points to his name, a total he appears primed to finish on as the Wizard racks up a morale-boosting victory.

And Whitlock could then take confidence into his battle with an already-qualified Van Barneveld, whom he has beaten eight times throughout his career.

The Australian is 7/4 to add another victory to that tally, and investment in a scenario that would see him through to finals night could feasibly bring about rewards exceeding 7/1.

A double success for Whitlock is priced at just over 4/1, but when combined with a triumph for Taylor, who has won his last two matches by a cumulative 10 legs, punters can claim a 7/1 bounty.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.