Premier League Darts star takes drastic action after blaming bathroom troubles for poor display

Josh Rock has revealed he’s adopted an unusual new bathroom routine after blaming handwash for his Premier League horror show in Antwerp.

The 24-year-old was brushed aside 6-2 by Michael van Gerwen on Night Two last Friday, posting a worrying 79.34 average in what was one of his toughest nights on the big stage.

But Rock insists the damage was done before he even stepped up to the oche — and says the venue’s hand soap left his hands numb and ruined his grip.

The Northern Irish star explained:

“I went to the toilet just before I went on stage and whatever soap they have that you wash your hands with, I put it all over.

“The next minute I went up there, I knew this was not going to start well. I just could not feel it at all.”

Rock believes the soap affected his ability to control the dart, leaving him struggling throughout the match.

“It must have been the soap I used. I was trying my best to get some grip, but it didn’t happen.”

Plan B: Chalk and Wax

Determined not to let it happen again, Rock has now introduced a “Plan B” to his matchday preparation — packing chalk and wax in his case to ensure he maintains grip in any conditions.

“Now we have a plan B with a bit of chalk and wax in my case from now on,” he revealed.

Thankfully for Rock, the issue didn’t resurface during Players Championship action this week.

“I didn’t have to use it in the Players Championship this week, so it is fine,” he added.

Eyes on Glasgow

Despite the Antwerp disappointment, Rock remains upbeat and is already looking ahead to upcoming nights on the Premier League circuit.

“Apart from Belfast, I was more looking forward to Antwerp, but it didn’t go to plan,” he admitted.

“Glasgow is pretty close to home too, so I can’t wait.”

With new precautions in place — and no risky soap in sight — Rock will be hoping his grip problems are firmly behind him as he looks to climb the Premier League table.