Phil Taylor is set to make his return to competitive darts at the MODUS Super Series in November, almost eight years after his departure from the sport. 'The Power' has revealed that the opportunity to team up with his long-standing friend Adrian Lewis has been a key driving force behind his decision to make a comeback.
Return to the oche in Portsmouth
The 16-time World Champion, now 66, will step back up to the oche for the MODUS Super Series International Pairs Tournament, due to take place in Portsmouth from November 23 to 28. The event, held at the banner's official studio, will be broadcast free of charge on Pluto TV.
It signals the revival of one of darts' most celebrated partnerships, with Taylor and Lewis having claimed four major titles together from five major doubles competitions, including multiple World Cup of Darts crowns.
What the players said
Reflecting on his return, Taylor said: "I've been asked plenty of times about coming back, but it would have to be for the right reason. Adrian is one of the very few people I'd come out of retirement to play alongside, and the MODUS Super Series is the place I wanted to do it. We've got a lot of history together, we know each other's games inside out and I'm looking forward to getting back up there with him," reports the Mirror.
'Jackpot' Lewis, meanwhile, added: "Phil and I have shared some brilliant moments playing together over the years, so to get the chance to do it again is really special. We know what it takes to win as a pair, and I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do together."
Line-up to be revealed
While the announcement will be warmly received by darts fans, supporters will need to wait a bit longer to discover who Taylor and Lewis will be up against in the competition. The full line-up for the International Pairs Tournament is due to be revealed live through the MODUS Super Series channel on October 10.
Commenting on the Taylor and Lewis announcement, MODUS Super Series CEO and executive producer Chris Murphy said: "Phil Taylor coming out of retirement is a huge moment for darts, and we're incredibly proud that he has chosen the MODUS Super Series to make his return. To have him back alongside Adrian Lewis, another phenomenal player, makes it even more special. Their history together speaks for itself, and seeing them reunited on the MODUS stage is going to be an incredible moment for darts fans."
