The darts world is buzzing with controversy as the 2026 season kicks off with the Bahrain Darts Masters, but the spotlight has shifted from the oche to the commentary booth. Veteran broadcaster and former professional player **Alan Warriner-Little** has publicly slammed ITV for what he describes as being unceremoniously dropped after two decades of dedicated service.
Warriner-Little, a respected figure in the sport known as “The Iceman,” took to social media to express his dismay following the announcement of ITV’s revamped presenting, punditry, and commentary team for the new three-year broadcast deal with the PDC. The 63-year-old, who enjoyed a successful playing career from 1985 to 2009—including a World Grand Prix title—and has served as president of the Professional Darts Players Association (PDPA), revealed he learned of his exclusion only through the public unveiling of the lineup.
“It would have been nice/professional after 20 years service with ITV to at least be told I have been thrown in the gutter,” he wrote. “Good luck to everyone. #VeryPoor. I shall be from this point reviewing everything I do.”
The sharp criticism highlights a perceived lack of communication and courtesy from the broadcaster, despite his long-standing contributions as both a pundit and commentator across major events like the UK Open, European Championship, World Series tournaments, and Players Championship Finals. Warriner-Little’s insightful analysis, drawn from his experience as a former world number one, made him a fan favorite for providing clear, knowledgeable perspectives on the game.
This shake-up comes as part of a refreshed production approach under the extended partnership between the PDC and ITV, which runs through at least 2028 and keeps high-profile events free-to-air on ITV4 and ITVX. Matchroom Media has taken on full production duties, leading to a new-look team designed to bring fresh energy to the coverage.
Leading the presenting duo are **Gabbie Partington**, who steps into the role for the World Series events including the Bahrain and upcoming Saudi Arabia Masters, and **Pete Graves**, a familiar voice from Sky Sports. The commentary team features **Dan Dawson** heading the booth, joined by **Mark Wilson** and broadcasting veteran **Ian Danter**. On the punditry side, continuity is provided by stalwarts like **Chris Mason** (a mainstay since 2010) and **Mark Webster**, while new additions include **Wayne Mardle** leading the panel alongside three-time world champion **Glen Durrant**.
The changes also follow the earlier departure of longtime presenter **Jacqui Oatley**, who announced in November that she would be leaving ITV after a 10-year stint.
As the Bahrain Darts Masters unfolds at Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir—marking the fourth staging of the event and the first televised tournament under the new deal—the focus remains on the action on the board. Top stars like world champion **Luke Littler** (facing Paul Lim in a headline first-round clash), **Luke Humphries**, defending champion **Stephen Bunting** (up against Ryusei Azemoto), **Michael van Gerwen**, **Gerwyn Price**, and others are competing for glory in this prestigious World Series opener.
Warriner-Little’s outspoken reaction has sparked debate among fans, many of whom have praised his contributions over the years and expressed surprise at the manner of his exit. While some note that broadcasting lineups evolve with new deals and production shifts, his frustration underscores the personal impact such changes can have on long-serving professionals who have helped grow the sport’s popularity.
With darts enjoying unprecedented buzz—fueled by emerging talents like Littler and record viewership—the new ITV team has an opportunity to build on that momentum. Whether the refreshed coverage delivers the excitement fans crave remains to be seen, but for now, the sport’s opening weekend is proving eventful both on and off the stage. As arrows fly in Bahrain, the conversation about respect, legacy, and the future of darts broadcasting continues to resonate far beyond the Middle East. (Word count: 728)
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