The Netherlands' sole representative, , was supported by countryman Dirk van Duijvenbode in Rotterdam on Thursday night. And the world No. 31 accidentally made a significant personal announcement during a live interview on Dutch TV.
Van Duijvenbode came fully kitted out in a Raymond van Barneveld shirt for the Premier League's only event on Dutch soil. But he didn't have much to shout about, as Van Gerwen was beaten 6-5 by in his first match of the night. Van Duijvenbode is a regular attendee at Rotterdam Ahoy and he was cornered for an interview by while soaking in the party atmosphere.
When presenter Koert Westerman asked him how he was getting on with his 'little one' at home, Van Duijvenbode responded: "Yes [everything is okay], and number two is on the way!"
After a congratulations from Westerman, Van Duijvenbode continued: "I wasn't actually going to tell you that at all, by the way! But it's true [laughs]."
The 32-year-old has been grappling with a shoulder injury while playing on the Pro Tour and European Tour this season. And he issued a positive update on how his recovery is progressing. He said: "I'm doing well. The shoulder injury I suffered from for a long period of time, I don't really feel much, if at all, anymore. It's all strong and my level is also going up, so I'm happy."
Van Duijvenbode watched on as the duo who started the night occupying the bottom two spots in the Premier League Darts standings made it all the way to an unlikely final.
Bunting notched narrow wins over Van Gerwen and Luke Littler to book his spot, while Chris Dobey comfortably beat Luke Humphries and Nathan Aspinall. Dobey won the night to go sixth in the table, but another positive evening for Bunting has moved him closer to contention after going the first eight weeks without a victory.
Following his 6-2 win over Bunting, Dobey said: "It feels great to be back in the winning circle. I knew I could do it, it's just about performing on the night. I am a fighter, I kept believing and I am here to win. Three great performances and I am back in the play-off mix.
"I learnt from playing local stuff. My dad never let me win. That stubborn mindset, I have to take my hat off to that! I believe I can still get into the top four if I can keep this performance [level] up. I think I have a good chance."
You may also like
Texas man accused of butchering father claims aliens took his organs
MIKEY SMITH: 6 unhinged things Donald Trump did in 24 hours as 'medical issue' sparks Oval Office chaos
Steven Gerrard and Jose Mourinho tipped to battle it out for top European job
Celebrating heritage and sustainability at GHAG silver jubilee in Goa
Gold rush - price of a single bar soars above £1million amid Trump turmoil