“I still think Josh Rock will come good. He is only halfway through the Premier League now,” remarked Daryl Gurney, reflecting on Rock’s recent performance in the 2026 Premier League Darts.
After a challenging start to the tournament, where Rock faced a daunting seven straight defeats, he finally found his footing by defeating Jonny Clayton 6-3 in the quarter-finals on Night Eight in Berlin. This victory not only marked a turning point for Rock but also showcased his resilience and potential as a competitor.
Prior to this win, Rock had suffered a heavy loss to Gerwyn Price, where he was shut out with a score of 0-6 in the quarter-finals on Night Seven in Dublin. Such a streak could have deterred many, but Rock’s determination remained evident.
Gurney continued to express his faith in Rock, stating, “I think for me Josh is so mentally strong. He has come such a short way in such a short space of time.” This sentiment reflects the broader belief in Rock’s capabilities among his peers, despite the setbacks he has faced.
Rock’s journey in this year’s Premier League has been notable not just for his struggles but also for his status as one of the wildcard picks in the eight-player line-up. The stakes are high, with the Premier League champion set to earn a substantial £350,000 first prize.
As the tournament progresses, matches are scheduled every Thursday until the Finals Night on May 28. The top four players will advance to the Play-Offs, adding further pressure to Rock and his competitors.
With every match being a best-of-11 legs format, Rock’s upcoming challenge against Jonny Clayton on Night Nine in Manchester will be crucial. The anticipation surrounding this match is palpable, as fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Rock can build on his recent success.
Gurney has been a supportive figure for Rock, stating, “I text him good luck every week. I don’t give him advice because it’s Josh Rock.” This camaraderie highlights the respect Rock has earned in the darts community.
As the tournament continues, the focus will be on whether Rock can maintain his momentum and possibly reclaim his standing among the elite players in the league.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the tournament structure or player line-up as the competition intensifies.