Stephen Bunting is targeting back-to-back victories in Berlin, as the Liverpudlian bids to ignite his BetMGM Premier League Play-Off push in the German capital on Thursday. Night Eight of this year’s darting roadshow will take place at the iconic Uber Arena – the scene of Bunting’s memorable Premier League triumph 12 months ago. Following a […]
Stephen Bunting is targeting back-to-back victories in Berlin, as the Liverpudlian bids to ignite his BetMGM Premier League Play-Off push in the German capital on Thursday.
Night Eight of this year’s darting roadshow will take place at the iconic Uber Arena – the scene of Bunting’s memorable Premier League triumph 12 months ago.
Following a run of eight consecutive defeats in last year’s competition, Bunting ended his winless run in some style on German soil, claiming the nightly crown in front of a capacity crowd.
“From the moment I was stood back outside the venue, I had goosebumps to be honest,” reflected Bunting, who beat Nathan Aspinall, Luke Humphries and Gerwyn Price in Berlin last year.
“Last year was a special moment, not just in the Premier League, but for my career.
“It proved that I could compete against and beat the very best, and I cannot wait to get back on stage on Thursday.”
Bunting’s Premier League position is far less precarious on his return to Berlin – with the Liverpudlian currently just four points adrift of the top four positions.
The 40-year-old celebrated victory on Night Four in Belfast, averaging 106 in wins over Luke Humphries and Jonny Clayton before denying Gian van Veen to open his 2026 account.
The former Masters champion also dispatched Josh Rock in the Night Six quarter-finals, only to succumb to a merciless Littler in Dublin last Thursday.
“I have found my feet a lot quicker this season compared to last year, and I feel like I’ve been playing well,” continued the world number seven.
“I think I’m still third in the [tournament] averages, so I’m really happy with the way I’ve been performing, but I need to turn those performances into wins.
“Obviously things didn’t go to plan in Belgium last weekend, but I’ve had a few days to rest and recover, and I’ve been working hard on my game.”
Bunting averaged north of 104 in defeat to Littler at the 3Arena last week, although he’s relishing the prospect of renewing his rivalry against the world number one.
“I need to play to the best of my ability, because if I don’t, I could get battered,” conceded Bunting, who is averaging 99.14 across the tournament to date.
“You know if Luke Littler plays his top game, it’s going to be difficult for anyone in this Premier League, but I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“I’m sure the atmosphere is going to be amazing, and hopefully I’ll have the fans on my side!”
The 2026 BetMGM Premier League is being broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland, through the PDC’s worldwide broadcast partners including DAZN and Viaplay, and on PDCTV for Rest of the World Subscribers (outside of the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria & Switzerland).
2026 BetMGM Premier League
Night Eight – Uber Arena
Thursday March 26
Quarter-Finals
Jonny Clayton v Josh Rock
Luke Humphries v Michael van Gerwen
Luke Littler v Stephen Bunting
Gerwyn Price v Gian van Veen
Semi-Finals
Clayton/Rock v Humphries/Van Gerwen
Littler/Bunting v Price/Van Veen
Final
v
Best of 11 legs