Premier League Darts 2014: Rod Harrington's season preview

The Premier League is not your typical darts tournament. It doesn't get ranked so you can't improve your world ranking by playing in it, but it is a magnificent show.

Big match

The big match on Thursday night sees Phil Taylor taking on Michael van Gerwen and The Power has a lot to prove. Taylor will use new darts after switching companies, but I don't think he will change the shape or weight of his equipment. He's had a long break since the World Championship and it will be interesting to see what sort of form he's in. He will want to beat Michael in Liverpool and prove right from the start of the year that people are wrong to write him off. It wouldn't surprise me if he turns up and throws a brilliant game of darts. I spoke to Michael in Germany and he moaned at me that Phil wasn't there. He says he wants to play Taylor and Van Barneveld and all the best players while he's number one and playing at his best. That's what any top sportsman wants to do and I like that sort of talk in a player. Michael will undoubtedly throw a good game - but I have no doubt Phil will be ready for him on Thursday night.