PDC World Grand Prix, Dublin – Tournament Preview

Debutants

Mensur Suljovic

The Austrian known as the ‘Gentle’ has this year took the tour a lot more seriously after being a regular causer of shocks in major tournaments over the years. Suljovic has committed to playing the Pro Tour and as a result he has risen into the top 32 in the world and will be a player everyone wants to avoid. A slow and methodical player, he has at times caused friction with his opponents but his love for the game is apparent from the off and as a particular favourite of the Editor, there is hope he could at least cause a shock in his first round game with James Wade. However the ‘Machine’ is one of the players who will least be affected by Suljovic’s slow play and so it will be who can hit their doubles.

Gerwyn Price

The former Rugby League star is making a name for himself on the darts circuit and has shown his mettle by qualifying for both the Matchplay and the World Grand Prix this season. He will no doubt be at the World Championships too and here in Dublin he comes up against Michael Smith who whilst his floor play has been sensational on the Pro Tour, he is less assured on the big stage though he could quite easily be a contender. Price is consistent and should Smith have problems with his doubles, the Welsh star could easily come out on top and make a name for himself at the Citywest.

Jamie Lewis

Jamie Lewis is another Welshman making his debut in Dublin and again he is a consistent floor player and can often be found at the business end on the Pro Tour. He has a smooth action but has yet to settle on the big stage in front of the camera’s and will need to overcome these obvious nerves if he is to take the next stage in his career. The 23 year old has a huge future ahead of him and has a big chance to get into the second round having been drawn against Irishman William O’Connor. This tournament could be the making of the man nicknamed ‘Rasta’ if he can get past the first stage.

Keegan Brown

This Isle of Wight based youngster has a bright future ahead of him and could be one of the stars of the future and has already shown he has the bottle to compete at the business end in the PDC. He is a single minded focused darting machine and he will only grow as he gets more experience. He has been drawn against top seed Michael van Gerwen and won’t crumble in facing the reigning champion. MVG will know he has to perform from the outset against Brown but we could quite possibly see a shock result at the Citywest.