Grand Slam of Darts: Wayne Mardle pays tribute to Martin Adams
Friday 13 November 2015 07:44, UK
Martin Adams has been a breath of fresh air and must return to the Grand Slam of Darts, says Wayne Mardle.
'Wolfie' was the sole BDO survivor at the Wolverhampton tournament after the group stage but on Thursday night he lost 10-9 in a thrilling last-16 contest against Kim Huybrechts.
Adams' run in the event had been popular with the fans whose wolf noises became a constant theme while their hero strung together three straight wins - which Mardle has welcomed.
"He's the gift that keeps on giving," Mardle said. "From start to finish, incredible.
"The way he's carried himself. The way he's embraced the crowd and the way they've embraced him. It's good to see.
"We see too much tension built up, it's good to see someone get away and defuse things. Kim was the aggressor in their game, Martin was turning around and smiling.
"It's been a joy to watch and something that the guys on the regular PDC tour can probably learn from."
It's been a joy to watch and something that the guys on the regular PDC tour can probably learn from.
Adams has not been the only BDO representative at the Grand Slam of Darts - Andy 'The Viking' Fordham also made a popular appearance until bowing out on Tuesday.
The novelty of their involvement has raised the prospect of pitting 16 BDO players against 16 PDC players in the 2016 event.
Mardle said: "I'd like it to be a possibility. The qualifying system is flawed because only two of their top eight are here. Their No 1, Glen Durrant, is not here.
"He's been having some incredible games with 106, 107 averages. He's their World Master, as well. Six of their top eight are not here. Get their top 16 against the PDC's top 16."
Adams and Fordham's jovial arrival, coupled with the crowd's unanimous joy whenever they played, means there should be no PDC v BDO rivalry, Mardle thinks.
He believes their popularity proves bitterness between the two organisations is unwarranted - and called for more unity in the future.
"What I most enjoyed was Martin, earlier in the week, saying 'it's not them and us, it's darts players playing in a tournament and going at it'," Mardle said.
"Let's lose all this 'BDO v PDC'. Incorporate the BDO with the PDC.
"We've enjoyed watching Adams and Fordham probably more than anyone. They bring a lot to the table."
Watch the Grand Slam of Darts continue on Friday at 7pm, live on Sky Sports 3 HD.
