ITV apologises and PDC concern assertion after Bahrain Darts Masters powercut
The Bahrain Darts Masters was plunged into darkness during the quarter-final clash between Gian van Veen and Danny Noppert, forcing a temporary halt to play
Play was halted during the darts in Bahrain and ITV had to apologise(Image: ITV)
ITV had to apologise after a power cut plunged the Bahrain Darts Masters into darkness during Gian van Veen’s quarter-final battle with Danny Noppert.
The fifth leg of their showdown came to a sudden halt just as Van Veen had delivered his opening three arrows.
The World Championship runner-up held a commanding 3-1 advantage when proceedings were suspended. An official statement from the PDC’s X account confirmed: “A break in play here after an electrical issue in the venue….We will be back shortly.”
Daily Star – JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
A message scrolling across ITV’s television coverage stated: “We apologise for the technical issues. The darts will recommence shortly.”
Fans in the venue embraced the situation with good humour, quickly activating their phone torches to illuminate the darkened playing area.
The broadcast crew filled the delay by screening footage from last year’s tournament whilst awaiting resolution of the power problem.
Once electricity was restored, both players were allowed additional practice time on stage before resuming from the fifth leg of their match.
Van Veen clinched that crucial leg after Noppert missed his first chance at a finish.
The World Championship finalist kept his form intact, taking the next two legs to book his place in the semi-finals.
The Dutch ace will now face Nathan Aspinall in the final four, while compatriot Michael van Gerwen prepares to tackle Gerwyn Price.
Former electrician and now professional darts player, Rob Cross, took to social media to jest about the situation, posting: “I’m available if you need me @OfficialPDC”.
Earlier in the day, Luke Littler was knocked out of the tournament by his Welsh adversary, Price. The Nuke’s remarkable three-month winning streak on television came to a halt as he succumbed 6-2 to the Iceman.
The current world champion struggled with his throw and switched darts during the match.
