Alan Warriner-Little criticizes ITV following presenter overhaul
Veteran darts commentator Alan Warriner-Little has launched a blistering attack on ITV following the announcement of a revamped presenting team for the broadcaster’s PDC coverage, reports BritPanorama.
The 63-year-old, who served the network for two decades, expressed his discontent at learning he had been removed without any direct communication. “It would have be nice/professional after 20 years service with ITV to at least be told I have been thrown in the gutter. Good Luck to everyone. #VeryPoor I shall be from this point reviewing everything I do,” Warriner-Little wrote.
Recently, the commentator underwent cardioversion surgery to restore a normal heart rhythm. His departure coincides with significant changes within ITV’s coverage of darts.
Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom company is set to take control of ITV’s PDC darts broadcasting this year. Despite these production changes, substantial coverage will still be accessible free-to-air through ITV4 and ITVX, maintaining access for a broad audience.
Pete Graves, with 17 years of experience at Sky, and Gabbie Partington have been appointed as the new lead presenters. Warriner-Little is not the only notable figure to exit; Jacqui Oatley, who has fronted PDC coverage for a decade, confirmed her departure last year.
The transitions in ITV’s commentary team appear aimed at appealing to a growing viewership. Wayne Mardle, a five-time World Championship semi-finalist, joins as a pundit, while Chris Mason adds continuity from the previous setup.
Completing the punditry roster are former BDO world champion Mark Webster and former Premier League winner Glen Durrant, with Dan Dawson confirmed as a commentator. The renewed team will cover events including the World Masters, UK Open, World Series of Darts Finals, European Championship, and Players Championship Finals over the new deal.
The partnership between ITV and the PDC is set to extend beyond two decades under a new three-year agreement announced last year, with PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter emphasizing the buzz around darts and the importance of free-to-air coverage for UK fans.
As ITV repositions its darts broadcasting strategy, the shift illustrates the evolving landscape of sports presentation, with both legacy and new figures navigating changes that may redefine viewer engagement.
