With many players opting for Q School, the Modus Super Series turns to the Women's event. And it is a top line up. Maybe no Beau Greaves or Fallon Sherrock, but the very best in Women's darts are here. It is also exciting to see two of the games up and coming stars appear, in Paige Pauling and Sophie McKinlay.
The favourites, and rightly so are Gemma Hayter and Lisa Ashton. Hayter had a storming end to last year, picking up the ADC Women's title on the Modus stage, beating Fallon Sherrock 4-0. She has mixed it with her male counterparts on this stage too, more than matching them. Ashton has showed glimpses of her old form too and will be a danger. Even a below par Ashton, is more than a match for her peers.
Lorraine Winstanley and Trina Gulliver represent two very experienced players, that will not be overawed by the event. On their day, they are still very much able to compete and will be tough opponents.
Scandinavia are represented here by Kirsi Vinikainen and Vicky Pruim. Vinikainen was so close to making history at the WDF World Championships, by narrowly missing a double 12 for a 9-dart checkout. Those within the game are well aware of her talent. Pruim is a consistent performer. She has played on this stage several times and is always very competitive on the Women's Series .
The interesting prospects of Paige Pauling and Sophie McKinlay may give an early indication of the prospect of new talent coming through. Both are teenagers and both are climbing rapidly to the top in the Women's game. McKinlay, in particular, made the final of the WDF World Championship in 2024 and did not look out of sorts playing Beau Greaves.
Ireland are represented by the duo of Katie Sheldon and Robin Byrne. Byrne is a multiple Women's Series winner and can be very dangerous. Sheldon showed promise as a youngster and is gradually finding her way through to the top end of Women's darts. This could be a great springboard.
Finally Laura Turner and Steph Clarke make up the field. Clarke showed her form at the ADC Finals and has the talent to match any of the above. Perhaps not quite as consistent as some of her opponents, but certainly has the ability. Fresh from her commentating duties, Turner returns to her playing side. Again, another player with the ability to challenge when on form.
Of the players contending, I believe the steepest trajectory in improvement comes from Gemma Hayter and Sophie McKinlay. There is more than enough experience in the field to challenge these two, but if all play their 'A' game, I see these two in the final. Lisa Ashton and Paige Pauling, in particular, will certainly be hot on their heels though.
