he PDC World Championship starts on 11th December, and while the favourites will naturally dominate the headlines, every year there are players outside the top bracket who produce big moments, cause early upsets, or go on unexpected runs. This tournament is perfect for that.A long format, set play, the pressure of Ally Pally, and the fact that many players peak at exactly the right time.
Here are eight players who may not be included in the title conversations but could easily make a serious impact this year.
Connor Scutt
A heavy scorer who impressed at the recent Grand Slam of Darts. He’s had a steady season but appears to be hitting form at just the right time. His draw could put him up against Gary Anderson and Jermaine Wattimena, and neither match is beyond him if he settles early. Scutt is dangerous when his scoring phase kicks in, and if the doubles follow, he could go further than many expect.
Dom Taylor
Another big scorer who seems to get punished every time he posts a ton-plus average. His recent loss to Andrew Gilding at the Players Championship Finals summed up his year with the match in his hands, missed doubles cost him. Still, when he’s flowing, he can trouble anyone. A potential run-in with Jonny Clayton or Michael Smith awaits, but on his day he has every chance.
James Hurrell
Hurrell enjoyed an excellent Players Championship outing recently and has shown real quality throughout the season. He has openly talked about working on his fitness, and that seems to have improved his consistency and confidence. A potential match with Dirk van Duijvenbode looks tough on paper, but in terms of form, Hurrell absolutely has a chance to progress.
Mervyn King
King could be an interesting outsider this year. He opens with a tricky match against Ian White, but if he comes through that, the path ahead may be kinder than expected. His regular success on the Modus Super Series has helped him maintain that “stage sharpness,” and a possible meeting with Rob Cross is far from unwinnable. If King starts well, the draw really could open up for him.
Bradley Brooks
Brooks finds himself in the same eighth of the draw as Luke Littler, which will deter most players – but he isn’t like most. A former World Youth Champion with genuine 100+ average potential, Brooks plays with confidence and very little fear. If he gets on a roll, he could set up a thrilling clash with Littler. On his day, he’s capable of putting anyone under real pressure.
Charlie Manby
One of the most exciting debutants in the field. Fresh from winning Champions Week at the Modus Super Series, Manby arrives with momentum and belief. He is capable of hitting massive averages when he finds his rhythm. If he can handle the Ally Pally nerves and come through a tricky opener against Cameron Menzies, the draw beyond that could allow him to go deep.
Matthew Dennant
Another debutant, but one who already carries himself like a seasoned pro. Dennant has been steady throughout the year and looks comfortable at Pro Tour level. With Challenge Tour and Modus Super Series experience behind him, he has the temperament for Ally Pally. He faces Kevin Doets first, then potentially Mike De Decker .Neither in their best form ,so Dennant has a realistic opportunity to progress.
Justin Hood
Hood is one of those dangerous floaters who can beat big names if he finds his game. His win over Damon Heta at the Players Championship Finals proved he can rise to the occasion. A strong Pro Tour season and appearances on the European Tour give him plenty of experience. If he overcomes Nick Kenny, he might face Danny Noppert next, but Hood has shown he can lift his level against top opponents.
These eight players may not be top of the betting lists, but each has the game, mindset and pathway to make a real impression. The World Championship always delivers surprises, and don’t be shocked if one or more of these names helps create them.
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