Schindler's Difficult Return To European Stage

International Darts Open Champion Martin Schindler faces a difficult opening round match at the 2024 European Darts Grand Prix, taking on 2023 Development Tour Number 1 Gian van Veen in Round 1.

The Wall claimed a first PDC Ranking title last week in Riesa, beating Gerwyn Price 8-5 in the Final of the International Darts Open to claim £30,000 in prize money.

Martin’s best performance en route to winning the tournament came in the 2^nd Round against Joe Cullen, averaging 105.05 and hitting 6 180s in a 6-3 victory over The Rockstar.

Schindler though faces Gian van Veen for the right to face 7^th Seed Rob Cross in the 2^nd Round on Saturday, with the young Dutchman winning his last two opening matches on the European Tour in Munich and Riesa.

In fact Gian’s victories have both come against compatriot Raymond van Barneveld, beating the recent Pro Tour winner 6-5 and 6-3 in the last 2 Events.

Van Veen has qualified for all European Tour Events so far this year and will hope for a deep run this weekend, as he looks to build up some form ahead of the World Matchplay, which he looks set to qualify for in July.

Elsewhere in the European Darts Grand Prix, Peter Wright will want to return to form as he faces Mickey Mansell whilst Chris Dobey who won Players Championship 7, takes to the oche earlier in the night to face Ian White.

The seeded players will enter the frame in Sindelfingen on Saturday, with a potential repeat of the 2024 World Championship Final in the 2^nd Round should Luke Littler defeat Arno Merk in the 1^st Round.