‘Luke Littler dealing with Martin Lukeman wasn’t surprising if you happen to have a look at lifetime of darts stars’

I’ve said before that some results in darts that are billed as surprises are not actually unexpected at all.

At last week’s Grand Slam of Darts, it was a case of ‘here we go again’ as Martin Lukeman and Mickey Mansell were among the people putting their names up in lights, making the final and semi-final respectively.

I personally did not play as well as I could, so no excuses from me in that respect, but you have to ask: would there have been so many ‘unexpected’ results and top 10 players bowing out if they had been properly rested? Personally, I don’t think so.

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That’s not to take away from the performances of those players – and let me assure you, they are talented players – as they have been hitting consistent tournament averages and delivering consistent tournament results.

I just don’t think we would see the unexpected early exits of some of the top players if they had not been living out of a suitcase every week for the last five to 10 years.

There is a lot of pressure on the players to play in the tournaments, attend events and do all the things outside of darts – it takes its toll. However, it is the players’ choice and we are all guilty of it, including me.

Everyone finds it hard to say no, but what we should be doing is having a little time off between certain tournaments, resting up and being 100% ready for the next one.

As a final word on the Grand Slam, Luke Littler really did play incredibly well. He’s very good – amazing at times – and at 17 he is young, fresh and loves playing darts, it’s great to see whether you’re a fan or a player.

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This weekend is the Players Championship Finals at Butlins Minehead. I enjoy this event as I think it attracts a more purist darts fan.

There are a few reasons for this, but the fact the people have to book in for a few days and go out of their way to get there means you get a crowd of people who love their darts. They are very knowledgeable and it creates a good atmosphere.

I am looking forward to it. These tournaments come thick and fast and I need to be on top of my game and find some form, which would be nice with the World Championships on their way.