The world of professional darts recently saw a mix of sporting struggle and off-field controversy. Stephen Bunting faced a record 23 attempts at a ‘double’ finish in a single Premier League match, highlighting a significant challenge in his game. Meanwhile, veteran darts referee Justin Hood received a stern warning and fine from the PDC for an unusual incident involving his attire, or lack thereof, during a match.
Stephen Bunting’s Unprecedented Double Trouble
In a night that left darts fans both baffled and sympathetic, Stephen Bunting found himself in an unenviable position during his Premier League Darts match against teenage sensation Luke Littler. Bunting recorded an astounding 23 attempts at a ‘double’ finish – a critical part of the game where players must hit a specific outer ring segment to win a leg. This wasn’t just a bad night; it was a new record for the current Premier League season, underscoring a significant struggle with accuracy at the most crucial moment.
For those unfamiliar with darts, hitting a ‘double’ is the final, essential step to win a leg. Players aim for the narrow outer ring of the board, which doubles the number hit. Missing these crucial shots repeatedly can be incredibly frustrating, costing players legs and matches, especially in a high-pressure environment like the Premier League Darts, where the world’s top players compete weekly.
The Toughest Nights on the Doubles (Premier League 2024)
Bunting’s performance stands out, but he’s not alone in facing a challenging night on the doubles. Here’s how his record compares:
- 23 Darts at Double: Stephen Bunting (Night 10)
- 22 Darts at Double: Luke Humphries (Night 2)
- 22 Darts at Double: Luke Littler (Night 6)
- 21 Darts at Double: Stephen Bunting (Night 6)
Bunting’s appearance on this list twice, including the top spot, suggests a recurring issue that he will undoubtedly be keen to address. While hitting a double can be incredibly challenging under pressure, such high numbers often translate into missed opportunities and ultimately, match losses.
Referee Justin Hood Fined for Unexpected Shirtless Moment
Shifting gears from the oche to the officials’ stand, the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) recently issued a notable reprimand to veteran referee Justin Hood. Known for his composed presence, Hood found himself in hot water after an incident where he revealed his bare chest during a match.
The PDC maintains strict codes of conduct for all its personnel, including referees, to ensure professionalism and uphold the sport’s image. While the exact circumstances leading to Hood’s shirt removal are not fully detailed, the action clearly breached these professional standards, leading to a swift disciplinary response.
Hood himself acknowledged the severity of the situation, reportedly stating, “If I do it again, there will be a fine – and not a small one either.” This indicates a direct warning from the PDC, suggesting that while this instance resulted in a fine, future similar infractions could lead to even more severe penalties. The incident serves as a quirky reminder that even in the high-stakes world of professional darts, unexpected moments can capture attention, and rules are in place for everyone involved.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
