SIMON WHITLOCK returned to the Unibet Premier League Darts stage in spectacular style in Dublin, where he defeated Mensur Suljovic in a thrilling opener on Thursday.
Former finalist Whitlock averaged over 106 and successfully converted seven of his eight double attempts, including a stunning 160 checkout, to earn a 7-5 win against the Austrian ace.
“I enjoyed it and it’s great to be back in the Premier League,” said Whitlock. “I feel this is where I belong, I’ve practised hard and believed in myself.
“Mensur’s a really tough opponent and I’d have been happy to get a draw but once I got the chance for the win I took it, so I’m really happy.”
Whitlock will compete in the weekend’s UK Open Qualifiers in Wigan before returning to Premier League action in Cardiff next Thursday.