Andy Hamilton’s rise and rise in the world of darts continues. The Team Unicorn star has clinched the last automatic qualifying spot for the prestigious International Darts League in Holland in May. Hamilton’s run to the quarter-finals of the Players Championship event in Germany, not only won him £600 but it means that he cannot be caught, with the top 12 in the PDC Order of Merit guaranteed their places at the IDL.
Ronnie Baxter in 13th place in the rankings, is now over £5,000 behind Hamilton, despite reaching the final in Frankfurt where he lost to Raymond Van Barneveld. The UK Open Midlands Regional is the last event before the cut-off point for the IDL, so Hamilton cannot be caught in 12th spot.
Team Unicorn now boasts seven of the top 12 in the PDC Order of Merit…..Phil Taylor, Colin Lloyd, Peter Manley, Adrian Lewis, James Wade, John Part and Hamilton will all take their places in the IDL.
Wade’s victory in the UK Open North West Regional in Manchester clinched his place in the tournament.
For Hamilton, it is another massive boost. He has enjoyed a phenomenal 18 months on the PDC circuit – enjoying another great run at the World Championship and in January, he won his first big title – The Stan James Players Championship event in Gibraltar.
Current PDC Order of Merit:
1….Phil Taylor - £342,763
Selected Team Unicorn rankings:
16…Barrie Bates - £48,933
BY STUART PYKE
