Colin Lloyd Questions Michael van Gerwen’s Hunger as James Wade Emerges as Premier League Frontrunner

Questions are mounting regarding Michael van Gerwen’s competitive drive following a prolonged period of poor form, while former rival James Wade is being touted as a likely candidate to replace him in the Premier League of Darts for the 2027 season. The debate was highlighted on the Love the Darts podcast, where former professional Colin Lloyd expressed concerns that the Dutch star may have lost the ‘fire’ that once defined his career.

Van Gerwen has struggled to find consistency over recent months. In his last five tournaments, he advanced beyond the first round only once, suffering a quarter-final defeat to Scott Williams at Players Championship 30. His campaign also included early exits against Ryan Joyce at the World Grand Prix, Daryl Gurney at the World Series of Darts Finals, Benjamin Pratnemer at Players Championship 29, and Damon Heta at the Flanders Darts Trophy. Although Van Gerwen admitted to being frustrated by his performance at the World Grand Prix, believing he deserved to win, Lloyd suggested the issue ran deeper than a single match.

“He has been doing it since he was 17… At some point or another, mentally and physically, you think to yourself, do I really need to go through this anymore?” Lloyd observed, noting that Van Gerwen has accumulated “battle scars” over two decades. Lloyd speculates that the three-time World Champion’s prioritization of family life and financial security may have diminished his competitive edge. “I don’t personally believe that if Michael van Gerwen steps away, you won’t see Michael van Gerwen come back,” Lloyd stated, adding that the player is financially secure and may prefer exhibitions over rigorous tournament play.

In stark contrast to Van Gerwen’s current trajectory, James Wade has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence. Over the past year, the English player has reached the semi-finals of the World Grand Prix for the first time since 2014, claimed his first World Series title at the Australian Darts Masters in August, and won the Flanders Darts Trophy in September—marking his first Euro Tour victory in ten years. Wade’s consistency is further evidenced by a record of winning 14 of his last 16 matches.

Commentator Matt Edgar argued that Wade’s recent performances make him a near-certain selection for the Premier League next year, particularly if the field expands from eight to ten players. Edgar expressed surprise that Wade was not included in discussions for the final spot this year, stating, “It seems every time I mention it in the moment people want say it is too early… He has to be, he has to be now.”

The Grand Slam of Darts is scheduled to take place in Wolverhampton from November 14-22, with coverage live on Sky Sports. The World Darts Championship follows from December 11 to January 3.