Darts is back on mainstream TV this week when the BBC stages the Champions League of Darts for the second year in a row. Phil Taylor won the tournament 12 months ago and has made it back to defend the title against the remainder of the top eight in the world.
This two day tournament features the best eight players in the world ranking so the quality should be guaranteed, as should the drama in a decent length format.
Recent Winners
2016 – Phil Taylor
The Format
The eight players have been separated into two groups of four. Each player plays the other three in their group once in the Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon sessions with the top two progressing to the semi-finals on Sunday evening. The final also takes place on Sunday evening.
Each group match in the tournament is the best of 19 legs with the semi-final and final taking place over the best of 21 legs.
Group A
This looks a belter of a group with the defending champion Phil Taylor joined by the world number one Michael van Gerwen and Raymond Barneveld. If that wasn’t a heavyweight group as it was then Adrian Lewis also being in it makes sure it is.
Group B
You would have to say that despite the fact this is the top eight in the world that Group B is inferior on paper to the other one. Gary Anderson will head the rankings of the quartet in this group with Peter Wright not far behind him. They are joined by two debutants in the form of Dave Chisnall and Mensur Suljovic.
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Betting
There is a part of me that is very tempted to back MVG at 5/6 to win this tournament. Usually I wouldn’t go near someone at that price but as this is only a two day event it is mighty tempting but then I think back to the World Matchplay and I am reminded that the value in that price is minimal at best.
With that in mind I am going to side with Phil Taylor to defend the title. While he is no guarantee to come through the group if we assume that van Gerwen will take one of the qualifying places, he will certainly be value for at least an each way pay out if he does make it through.
With him being in the stronger of the two groups he will avoid MVG in the semi-final. Whoever he would face from the other group in the last four he would be an overwhelming favourite to see off and even if he does end up playing MVG in the final we know both from this tournament last year and the Matchplay that he can see off the Dutchman. 13/2 is a big price in an event of this kind.
Tips
Back P.Taylor to win Champions League of Darts (e/w) for a 2/10 stake at 7.50 with Betfred (1/3 1-2)
Back him here:
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