Mark Webster opens up on uncommon most cancers analysis as darts pundit points assertion

Mark Webster was a popular darts player when he was starring in the BDO World Championship, but the now pundit has issued a heart-breaking statement

Darts commentator Mark Webster has revealed he has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer known as hairy cell leukaemia. The former British Darts Organisation (BDO) and Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) player took a step back from his responsibilities earlier this year to tackle the health issue.

Webster had announced in March he was due for reassessment within a month and was ‘keen’ to get back to work. However, it has now emerged his recovery following the diagnosis is not advancing as swiftly as he had anticipated.

The 42-year-old Welshman had been a regular fixture in Premier League darts coverage before being compelled to pull out ahead of the new season, having kept the specifics of his illness private until now.

He said: “On January 8th, I was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called hairy cell leukaemia. It’s got a good prognosis, 95% of cases are successful.

“I will put it into some sort of remission at some point but the recovery at the minute is not going to plan in terms of the speed of it.

“It’s not the worst case scenario but it’s just a bit frustrating for me at the minute. But I’m managing okay, I’m dealing with it alright.”

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Following a distinguished sporting career in which he secured the BDO World Championship in 2008 and reached the semi-finals of the PDC equivalent on two occasions, Webster made the switch from the oche to the commentary box six years ago.

He has since worked for both Sky Sports and ITV Sport, providing commentary and studio analysis. The commentator utilised his new position as a way of preserving his link with darts.

Having spent time struggling with dartitis, Webster decided against entering Q School in 2020 to regain the tour card he had previously forfeited. Originally, he had planned to return to competition, but he discovered tremendous satisfaction behind the microphone and enjoys “being able to be with friends and watch the sport”.

Speaking in March, Webster confirmed that he was receiving treatment that seemed to be producing positive outcomes. “Yeah, something cropped up, I’m having a bit of treatment, slowly it seems to be working,” he told Sky Sports.

“Hopefully another month it will be reassessed and I’ll be hoping to get back. I’ve missed far too much already. At least I get to chat to you guys, I have to be involved.

“I appreciate it,” he added. “I’ve had some nice messages over social media, it’s been really nice. As much as I like watching the darts, it’s not the same as being involved so I’m eager to get back.”