Josh Rock Set to Relive His Stag Do as He Makes Premier League Debut

World Cup of Darts winner Josh Rock is one of two debutants in the 2026 Premier League, alongside recent World Championship runner-up Gian van Veen. 

The refreshed line-up has seen fan favourite Nathan Aspinall and former world champion Rob Cross make way for the pair. 

Wales’ number one Jonny Clayton also returns, replacing Chris Dobey.

Reigning champion Luke Humphries, world number one Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, and Stephen Bunting round out the line-up, all returning from last year’s edition.

Tonight marks the first night of the competition in Newcastle.

Debutant Excitement

At the 2026 pre-event media day at Newcastle United’s St James Park, Rock admitted he is still coming to terms with his Premier League debut.

“It’s still hard to believe that I’m actually in it to be honest. It’s a dream come true, ever since I was a young kid, watching darts all my life. I’m milking every minute of it,” Rock said. 

“I’m up for the task. I’m really looking forward to this Premier Campaign.”

Premier League Selection and Fan Reactions

The Premier League line-up is always hotly debated, with fans and pundits predicting who should be included. 

For Rock, however, this didn’t affect his preparation.

“No, I see it on social media, everyone doing their predictions. I was in everybody’s predictions, so I was clearly doing something right the whole year. I don't look at that side of things too much.”

New City, Familiar Memories

Josh Rock has never competed in Newcastle, not even in an exhibition. Surprisingly, he’s only been to Geordieland once, two years for his stag do.

“No, I’ve never played here before, but funnily enough my stag do was here.”

“It’s only a short 30 minute flight [from Belfast]. It was two years ago before I got married last year.”

When asked if he will revisit the same venues as his stag do if he wins his Premier League night on debut, he kept it simple—and hilarious: “No,” he joked.