World no. 1 darts player Michael van Gerwen has confirmed he will defend his New Zealand Darts Masters title in Hamilton in August.
Van Gerwen will hope to become the first player to successfully defend the NZ title but will face some strong competition with nine of the 16 players already confirmed for the tournament.
Joining van Gerwen at Claudelands Arena will be former world champions Gary Anderson and Rob Cross. The top trio will also have to compete against two-time PDC major winner Daryl Gurney and fan favourite Peter Wright.
Cody Harris is the only Kiwi confirmed so far while Aussies Simon Whitlock, Kyle Anderson and Corey Cadby will also compete.
Despite the tough opposition already named, van Gerwen is feeling confident about the event.
"I've got great memories of coming to New Zealand in recent years and it will be fantastic to play in Hamilton in August," said Van Gerwen.
"The World Series is great for darts and it's fantastic for fans in places like New Zealand to get to see us live each year. I know it's a long time until we are in Hamilton, but it's a title I'd love to win."
More PDC stars are set to be added along with qualifiers from domestic circuits in both New Zealand and Australia. The New Zealand qualifiers will be held on June 29-30, although a location is still to be finalised.
Kiwi Mark McGrath created history last year when he beat Michael Smith to become the first New Zealander to win in the world series event.
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