Dave Chisnall is back from a few weeks off the main stage and prepares for the upcoming World Grand Prix with an upcoming trip to Den Bosch. Read his exclusive thoughts ahead of two huge days of Pro Tour action.
Dave Chisnall: To Den Bosch and Beyond, Sept 18th 2026
It’s been a quiet couple of weeks after missing out on Prague and the World Series of Darts finals this week, and I’ve just been hitting the practice board. I heard a quote from golfer Jordan Spieth in the week which was something like ‘80% of it is the head and the other 20% is with the hands’ and it struck me that darts is kind of the same. It’s really hard to go out there and keep turning up and give it your best if you’re on something of a bad run, so it’s been nice to have a good couple of months with getting to Blackpool (only just) and then getting to the Quarter Finals last month in Budapest.
Given the level I had played in the earlier rounds, it was quite disappointing to go out the way I did against Ross Smith – who has been something of a bogey player for us the last 18 months and all! I’m pleased for Ross, who keeps getting better and works very hard in a sport that can be harsh and unforgiving at times. If someone had told you a few years ago that Michael Smith would be out of the top 32 in the world for example – I don’t think many would believe you. Such is the strength in depth of players now, it’s just so hard to win.
Dave Chisnall: World Series
I’ve not been watching much of this week’s action so far, but did see Daryl Gurney had won and I’m really pleased for him. Daryl got a late call-up and has taken his chance – and it’s what you’ve got to do in this game. Beating a player of Michael’s calibre (who looks like he’s been on the diet I was on in the New Year!) will do his confidence the world of good and might see him kick on for the last few months of hte season.
Dave Chisnall: Back to Work
I’m sure I sound like a broken record but my practice has been good and I’m looking forwards to flying out next week for two days of Pro Tours in Den Bosch. Thursday was a really good session, and my throw feels in good shape. I’ve had to almost push the dart forward a bit more, as opposed to a bit more flight and they seem to be going in alright. Fingers crossed the doubles behave themselves and we might come home with a few Euros. Then I’ll be playing some exhibitions in Bromley next weekend before heading to Birmingham for the World Grand Prix. Needless to say, the doubles need to behave there as well if I’m to do anything there lol!
By Dave Chisnall
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