Phil Taylor enters the World Matchplay this weekend looking to re-write history by taking a record-breaking sixth successive title to take his Blackpool tally to 14 overall.
World number five Simon Whitlock plays Dutch ace Jelle Klassen while two-time World Matchplay finalist Terry Jenkins takes on Andy Smith in the opening fixture.
2010 runner-up Raymond van Barneveld completes the opening day line-up with a clash against Austrian debutant Mensur Suljovic.
"I really like the Winter Gardens, and it's probably the most beautiful venue we play in," Barneveld said. "It's one of the tournaments that I really look forward to playing in and that's especially so this year."
There will also be plenty of action to enjoy on Sunday with two sessions as Justin Pipe, last year's quarter finalist, takes on Mark Websiter before Kevin Painter faces Jamie Lewis.
Special memories
2009 semi-finalist Mervyn King will start the evening session against Scot Gary Anderson, who returns after missing the European Championship through illness, before Dave Chisnall plays Paul Nicholson and Taylor puts upcoming star Kellett through his paces.
Sunday will conclude with World Grand Prix and Premier League champion Michael van Gerwan, a strong tournament candidate, taking on 2005 Matchplay winner Colin Lloyd.
"Last year in Blackpool was where it really started to happen for me in the big tournaments," Van Gerwen added. "I managed to get a good couple of wins and hit a nine-darter so I already have special memories here.
"This year is completely different because I am one of the favourites but the pressure is the same really because I always want to do well.
"I have two PDC majors under my belt now and I have come close in a couple more but coming close is not enough - I want to win and I hope I can do that in Blackpool."
This year's tournament will be the first under amended rulings as players will need to win by two clear legs, with the tie-break now running for just five legs before sudden-death applies.
