Phil Taylor’s bid for a 9th World Grand Prix title will kick off against Irish qualifier Brendan Dolan. The Unicorn star will start the defence of his trophy on the opening night on October 5 in Dublin and will be expected to progress against Dolan.
World No.2 and former World Grand Prix champion James Wade is in action on October 6 and he has been handed a tough draw against the in-form Dennis Priestley.
Raymond van Barneveld returns to competitive action against Alan Tabern – also on the Tuesday night at the City West Hotel.
It is without doubt the best field ever assembled in Dublin, so what about the rest of Team Unicorn?
Adrian Lewis plays Robert Thornton, Terry Jenkins faces Wayne Mardle and John Part has a tough clash against Colin Lloyd.
Paul Nicholson plays Wayne Jones, knowing victory could set up a 2nd Round clash against Taylor.
Kevin Painter has been drawn against Michael van Gerwen and Colin Osborne takes on Mervyn King – both of those matches are eagerly awaited!
Andy Hamilton won’t have it easy against Mark Walsh, Mick McGowan faces an all Ireland battle against Jacko Barry and there’s an all Unicorn battle between Wes Newton and Jamie Caven.
SkyBet World Grand Prix 1st Round draw (bracketed):
Phil Taylor (1) v Brendan Dolan
By STUART PYKE at Crondon Park
