Stephen Bunting vs Michael van Gerwen Preview & Prediction | 2026 Premier League Darts | Quarter-Final | Night 1 (Newcastle)

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

Seven-time champion Michael van Gerwen begins his latest Premier League campaign against world number seven Stephen Bunting.

Start date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / US – DAZN

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / US – DAZN

Stephen Bunting vs Michael van Gerwen prediction

A somewhat controversial pick for this year's Premier League, Stephen Bunting probably feels like he has something to prove at this year's event, especially after he finished eighth last year after going winless in the first eight weeks.

The Bullet hasn't necessarily started the year well though, most recently losing in the second round of the World Masters on Saturday, averaging under 90 in a whitewash defeat to Danny Noppert.

A perennial Premier League participant, seven-time champion Michael van Gerwen remains a top contender despite not being at the absolute peak of his powers.

The Dutchman was desperately disappointed to finish outside the playoffs last year, which was only the second time he has fallen short in his 13 entries. It was a positive start to the year for MVG though, as he won the Bahrain Darts Masters and reached the final of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Darts Masters a week later.

A first-round exit at the World Masters does raise some concerns, but we think he'll be pumped up for this opening match. The Dutchman defeated Bunting at both of the aforementioned World Series events in January, and another win beckons here.

Stephen Bunting vs Michael van Gerwen tip: Michael van Gerwen to win