The PDC have taken heavy criticism from darts fans for ignoring Damon Heta in this year’s Premier League line-up.
The eight-man line-up was announced on Monday with Stephen Bunting, Nathan Aspinall, Gerwyn Price and Chris Dobey taking the four wildcard spots.
Defending champion Luke Littler secured his spot through the PDC Order of Merit, along with Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen and Rob Cross.
With just four spots available, there were always going to be some controversial decisions.
The Premier League line-up was always going to cause some controversy
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Gary Anderson, Dave Chisnall and Mike De Decker were all being tipped as possible options.
But the decision not to go with world No 8 Heta caused a stir on social media with many furious at the Aussie star’s snub.
One fan fumed: “No Damon heta is criminal.”
Another wrote: “No Damon Heta. Shocking decision.”
A third posted: “No Damon Heta the only mistake in that line-up for me.”
One other moaned: “Damon Heta’s talent and connection with the crowd totally deserved a spot in the ‘Top 8’. Let’s not forget, the PL is just one big exhibition. He belonged there.”
Another message read: “Unbelievably, I got it almost spot on! The PDC ruined it though by putting Gerwyn Price in over Damon Heta!”
Heta issued a statement on social media after receiving an influx of messages of support.
Damon Heta was a popular pick among darts fans
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“Well as usual there’s a lot of of strong feelings surrounding the PL pickings (I don’t trend very often),” he wrote on X.
“I wasn’t expecting to be picked in the PL & I know I wasn’t even in the talks with the board for it but I appreciate every single one of you who put me in their lineup & had faith I was going to be there.
“I didn’t move to England to play PL & I have been pretty open about that over the years.
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Stephen Bunting was one of the four wildcard picks
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“If it happens one day it happens but I’ll continue to work hard & what will be will be.”
Littler will be the man to beat once this year’s Premier League gets underway as the defending champion.
The first night of the season will be held in Belfast on February 6.