Gian van Veen expects to make his return to Premier League Darts on Thursday evening in Berlin after withdrawing last week due to kidney stones. The Dutchman spent a few days in hospital and missed the previous night in Dublin as well as the Euro Tour event in Wieze, but has now traveled to Germany with the intention of getting back on stage.
Van Veen confirms he is feeling better, although not fully recovered yet. "It's a bit better. At least I'm in Berlin. The plan is for me to play tomorrow," the 23-year-old told NU.nl. Until earlier this week it was uncertain whether he would be fit in time for the night in the German capital. He ultimately decided to travel but is keeping his schedule as light as possible, skipping usual media duties to get enough rest.
His return comes at an important moment in his debut Premier League campaign. Van Veen is fighting for a play-off spot, with only the top four in the standings qualifying. His withdrawal last week saw him drop from the top four to sixth, meaning he needs to keep picking up points in the remaining nights.
A tough opponent awaits in Berlin. Van Veen faces Gerwyn Price in the quarterfinals. Other quarterfinals on the night include Michael van Gerwen meeting Luke Humphries, leader Luke Littler playing Stephen Bunting, and Jonny Clayton taking on bottom-placed Josh Rock.
