BREAKING Michael van Gerwen wins Premier League night time one after shock Luke Littler exit

There was some Dutch delight on the banks of the River Tyne on Thursday evening as Premier League Darts returned for its 2026 edition.

The Newcastle night sky was turned a Dutch Oranje as debutant Gian van Veen and Michael van Gerwen clashed in the final of the showpiece event. Van Veen stunned Luke Littler before besting Johnny Clayton to set up the clash with Mighty Mike.

While Van Gerwen came from behind to best Stephen Bunting before navigating a tricky tie with Luke Humphries. Might Mike was the better of the two in the early legs, racing out of the blocks to break Van Veen.

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The younger of the pair started to find his feet, winning the next two legs he had the throw – but he needed to break Van Gerwen if he wanted a dream debut.

And it looked a tall order, with van Gerwen now showing his class on the outer-ring, taking out D12 to extend his lead once again.

However, Van Veen responded, taking out 110 on his throw – the first ton plus of the match. He had the chance to break his compatriot, but missed the D16.

Van Gerwen was within a leg, and missed three match darts to break Van Veen. It was a D10 then kept the match alive, but Mighty Mike had the darts.

Van Gerwen nailed D14 and won the opening night of the Premier League.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “It’s definitely a good performance.

“Without playing my A-game, I still won it. I was steady and had some fantastic finishing at the right moments.

“I know I can do better but this gives you confidence. Winning games is the best medicine.”