Gerwyn Price has pulled out of the upcoming World Cup of Darts in a huge setback for Wales ahead of the tournament in Frankfurt.
The two-time winners had been viewed as one of the strongest contenders, with The Iceman originally expected to partner Premier League table-topper Jonny Clayton.
But when the Professional Darts Corporation confirmed the line-ups for the June 11 event, Price’s name was absent, with Nick Kenny drafted in to replace him alongside Clayton.
The withdrawal also costs Wales their seeded position, meaning Scotland’s pairing of Gary Anderson and Cameron Menzies move up to become the tournament’s fourth seeds.
England are now expected to be the standout favourites, with Luke Littler and Luke Humphries aiming to bounce back from last year’s underwhelming showing in Germany.
There are several other notable changes to the line-up. Mickey Mansell will represent the Republic of Ireland alongside Willie O’Connor after previously playing for Northern Ireland.
Australia veteran Simon Whitlock is also absent, with Adam Leek stepping in to join Damon Heta.
Meanwhile, hosts Germany will once again place their hopes on Ricardo Pietreczko and Martin Schindler on home soil in Frankfurt.
Price’s withdrawal comes as the former world champion continues to battle health issues. The Welshman recently admitted he has not been feeling at his best while also adjusting to life away from darts after buying a farm.
Speaking during Premier League action last week, Price said: “My focus is there, it’s just healthwise I am not in a great place at the moment. But I am battling on and searching for some results.
“Hopefully in the next couple of weeks they will come and they will put me at ease. Then I will be able to enjoy darts again.
“Frustrating times. Time to rely on Lady Luck and see what happens over the next two weeks.
“Hopefully make the Play-Offs but need a lot of luck to go my way, hopefully see you at the O2.
“Not good playing once a week and hopefully I get the results I want in three weeks’ time.
“This year has been great in the Premier League and it’s been a great start to the season. The crowd has got me through a lot of games but sometimes things happen you can’t control.”
Comments are closed.