As the darts world gears up for the BetMGM Premier League showdown at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena on April 24, 2025, Stephen Bunting, the world No. 4, is riding a wave of anticipation—not just for an emotional homecoming but for a potential shock call-up to England’s World Cup of Darts team. The Scouse star, affectionately known as “The Bullet,” has his sights set on a spot in the June 12 event in Frankfurt, spurred by a cryptic social media post from teenage sensation Luke Littler that hinted at a possible boycott of German tournaments. Bunting, ever the opportunist, quipped, “If he doesn’t go back to Germany, that means I’m in the World Cup, doesn’t it?” His blend of humor and ambition underscores the high stakes and fierce rivalries defining darts’ electrifying 2025 season.
Littler, the 18-year-old world champion and Manchester United diehard, has made no secret of his discomfort with German crowds, particularly after a frosty reception at the German Grand Prix in Munich. His Instagram post, stating, “Shouldn’t have been in Munich but had to play anyway, next one in Germany for me is Dortmund and I am glad to say that,” raised eyebrows across the darts community. The cryptic message suggested he might skip the World Cup, where he’s slated to partner Luke Humphries for England. Bunting, next in line for the national team, seized the moment, smiling as he told reporters, “He’s put a few posts on socials about not going back to Germany.” For Bunting, a lifelong Liverpool fan, the prospect of representing England alongside Humphries is a dream opportunity, especially after his resurgence as one of the PDC’s most consistent performers.
The World Cup call-up speculation adds intrigue to Bunting’s return to Liverpool, where he’s set to face Rob Cross in the Premier League quarter-finals. The M&S Bank Arena holds deep personal significance for the 40-year-old, who vividly recalls watching darts icon Eric Bristow there as a child. “As soon as the Premier League line-up was announced, I was looking for the Liverpool fixture straight away,” Bunting said, his voice brimming with pride. Yet, the night carries added weight as he navigates a challenging Premier League campaign, having lost his first eight matches. A victory on home soil could be the spark he needs to climb from the bottom of the standings, a feat he likened to Liverpool’s legendary 2005 Champions League comeback in Istanbul. “I’m a Scouser, aren’t I? We fight till the end,” he declared, channeling the city’s indomitable spirit.
Bunting’s focus isn’t solely on his own performance—he’s also keeping a watchful eye on Littler, who faces Michael van Gerwen in a blockbuster quarter-final. Littler’s history of antagonizing Liverpool fans, particularly with taunts about last year’s 2-0 Merseyside derby loss to Everton, guarantees a hostile reception. Bunting, while acknowledging Littler’s talent, warned of the risks of such banter. “I think it’s a dangerous path you could go down, and you don’t want the fans hating you,” he advised, reflecting on the fine line between showmanship and alienating a passionate crowd. Despite their rivalry, Bunting respects Littler’s impact, crediting him with elevating darts’ global profile. “He’s a lad who has the world at his feet,” he said, a nod to the teenager’s role in drawing new fans and bigger purses to the sport.
The World Cup scenario hinges on Littler’s decision, but Bunting’s readiness speaks to his own remarkable journey. After reaching the 2025 World Championship semi-finals, where he fell 6-1 to Littler, Bunting bounced back by clinching the Bahrain Darts Masters title. His resurgence, dubbed “Stephen Bunting 2.0,” has him ranked fifth globally, a testament to his grit and refined skill. A potential World Cup debut would cap a career-defining year, pairing him with Humphries, whom he credits for sharpening his game through practice sessions. “I’m playing well enough to stamp my authority,” Bunting asserted, eyeing a chance to shine on the international stage.
As Liverpool braces for a night of darts drama, Bunting stands at a crossroads—chasing a Premier League upset, a World Cup dream, and the chance to etch his name deeper into darts lore. Whether Littler’s cryptic post proves prophetic or not, Bunting’s hunger and hometown pride ensure he’s ready to seize the moment, one dart at a time.