Premier League darts fans fume at ‘horrendous’ change to Sky Sports coverage described as ‘flat and absolutely awful’

Premier League Darts fans have slammed Sky Sports after a controversial change to the broadcaster’s coverage left viewers branding the production “horrendous”, “flat” and “absolutely awful”.

The backlash erupted following the latest night of Premier League action, with supporters taking to social media in large numbers to voice their frustration at what they felt was a noticeable dip in the overall viewing experience.

While the darts on display remained of a high standard, many fans complained that changes to Sky Sports’ presentation and coverage style stripped the event of its trademark energy and intensity. Viewers argued that the broadcast failed to capture the electric atmosphere usually associated with the Premier League, leaving the show feeling muted and underwhelming.

Several supporters pointed to alterations in commentary tone and pacing, suggesting the coverage lacked excitement during key moments. One fan wrote online: “The darts is brilliant, but the Sky coverage is flat and absolutely awful. It feels like all the life has been sucked out of it.” Another added: “This Premier League deserves better. The atmosphere doesn’t come across at all anymore.”

Others accused the broadcaster of over-tinkering with a format that had worked successfully for years. “Why fix something that wasn’t broken?” one viewer asked. “Sky used to be the gold standard for darts coverage. This just isn’t it.”

Some fans also felt the revised coverage failed to properly build tension during matches, particularly in the latter stages of the night. “Big legs, big moments — and there’s no buzz,” another supporter posted. “It’s horrendous compared to what we’re used to.”

Despite the criticism, Sky Sports did receive praise for the quality of its punditry team, with figures such as Glen Durrant, Wayne Mardle and Mark Webster continuing to offer detailed analysis throughout the evening. Presenter Emma Paton was also commended by some viewers for keeping the broadcast flowing smoothly.

However, many fans insisted that strong analysis alone was not enough to compensate for what they perceived as a lacklustre overall presentation. Several called on Sky to urgently review the changes and revert to a more traditional approach that better reflects the excitement inside the arena.

The backlash comes at a time when Premier League Darts itself is already under scrutiny, with debates ongoing about the tournament’s format and structure. For some supporters, the broadcast issues only added to their frustrations.

“Between the format and the coverage, something feels off this year,” one fan commented. “The players are delivering, but the TV product isn’t.”

As the Premier League continues over the coming weeks, Sky Sports will be hoping the focus returns to the action on the oche rather than the coverage surrounding it. But with fans making their feelings clear, pressure is mounting on the broadcaster to address the concerns and restore the vibrant, high-energy presentation that darts supporters have come to expect.