‘I would’ve took it’ – Nathan Aspinall calls for new Premier League Darts rule that would have stopped him qualifying

NATHAN ASPINALL has called for a shock change to the Premier League Darts rulebook – even though it would see him NOT play.

The Asp, 33, was controversially named in the eight-strong line up for the 2025 tournament, leading to an outcry from a section of fans.

Current rules see the top four players in the world – based on Order of Merit – qualify alongside four wildcards.

Luke Humphries, Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and Rob Cross earned the top four spots, with Stephen Bunting, Gerwyn Price, Chris Dobey and Aspinall handed the final four spots – as former champion Michael Smith and Peter Wright missed out.

Mike De Decker – despite being the world No24 – was the most-vocal in venting his frustration, having won the World Grand Prix in October.

There were even suggestions Aspinall only landed his spot because fans love his Mr Brightside walk-on tune.

And Aspinall – who has been very open with his disappointment at the reaction – has a solution to fix the Premier League problem, even if it’s to his detriment.

Aspinall explained:” If it was down to me, I’d make it [the Premier League] the top eight in the world to save all the stuff that I’ve been through.

“The disappointment from Mike de Decker, who is world No 24… to save all that ‘is he in or is he not?’

“Top eight, done.

“That’s what I would do. I would’ve missed out on this year, but I would’ve took it.

“In my opinion, if they made it top eight or if they made it 10 players, then there is no arguing is there?”

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However, Aspinall did reveal his excitement to be involved, concluding: “But it’s not that, and I’m buzzing that I’m here.”

The Asp also revealed he would push for another tweak to the tournament… starting it LATER in the year.

Speaking ahead of last night’s season opener in Belfast, Aspinall explained: “I think for me, if I could honestly make a decision, I’d like it to go back a month.

“Starting it in the first week of March gives me [the chance to] get a few Pro Tours under my belt, get that winning feeling a bit more.

“Obviously I’ve won a few games this year since Bahrain but trying to play more, get a few more games under my belt, a bit more time on the practice board.

“I haven’t had much time to practice because I missed two weeks pretty much because of a knock on my elbow, but I come alive in the Premier League, playing week in and week out.

“I’ve already said I’m committing to the tour this year, so what better way to start Thursday night by beating the world No1, potentially two or three in the world, and then go win in week one?

“That would be a great statement and great confidence boost.”

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Aspinall lost his tournament opener 6-2 to world No1 Humphries – who would go on to clinch the first night win of the 2025 season, beating Dobey in the final.

Elsewhere, Littler lost his first match in a thrilling 6-5 game against Van Gerwen – but was hailed for his amazing gesture.