MICHAEL VAN GERWEN’S “awkward” antics left a Sky Sports commentator baffled during a darts game.
The Dutch ace has endured a mixed season after struggling with illness.
Van Gerwen got back to winning ways with victory over Gerwyn Price at Players Championship 27 in the World Grand Prix.
But a week earlier he was thrashed by Daryl Gurney at event No26, failing to win a single leg in the process.
Van Gerwen could not clear his board for love nor money.
And one bizarre attempt at a checkout left Sky Sports commentator and former pro Wayne Mardle in disbelief.
Van Gerwen had 186 remaining on the board.
But he decided to hit a maximum, leaving a tricky three to finish.
Mardle gasped: “What on earth? Honestly though, leaving six, I don’t get that.
“Now he’s come back for the double that he will not like. Now it’s awkward. This is all about the 180 he hit.”
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Van Gerwen failed to hit the three as Gurney sealed victory.
And Mardle added: “I’m sorry, I don’t care what you’ve won. You’ve got to question the board management on that 180.”
Fellow commentator Stuart Pike chimed in: “Gurney has taken him to the cleaners in Leicester.
“The six-time champ has been dismissed, dispatched and destroyed on the big stage.
“One of the most embarrassing and humiliating defeats in his career. Certainly one of the most embarrassing he’s ever suffered at the World Grand Prix.”
Reflecting on his slump and comeback win at Players Championship 27, Van Gerwen said: “I was away for three weeks with different (illness) problems.
“It is frustrating but it is what it is. Sometimes health comes first and I’m glad I won today.”
