PAUL NICHOLSON is eagerly anticipating his clash with Gary Anderson on the opening night of the Blue Square UK Open.
Nicholson, a quarter-finalist in the Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship at Christmas, has drawn Scottish star Anderson in the plum tie of Thursday's play at the Reebok Stadium, Bolton.
English-born Australian number one Nicholson made a big impression when he burst onto the televised scene last year at the Grand Slam of Darts - where he defeated Anderson 5-4 in the group stage.
Click here to listen to audio interviews with Paul Nicholson and Phil Taylor ahead of the Blue Square UK Open in PDCtv
He also reached the last eight on his World Championship debut, while former International Darts League and World Darts Trophy winner Anderson has shown his quality in four months since joining the PDC with a Players Championship win, two finals and a nine-darter.
While much of the talk has centred around the size of the task Nicholson faces against Anderson, the 30-year-old insists he is relishing the challenge.
"A lot of people have said to me it's the hardest draw but I see it as a great opportunity," said Nicholson.
"I'm coming off the back of the World Championship five months ago and a decent Grand Slam, where I played Gary, and taking the positives from it.
"I've got him early. When players get into a tournament they tend to play better so it's probably the best time to play Gary - if at all!
"You want to prove yourself against great players and Gary is without a double one of the best in the world.
"For me, it's a great opportunity to get up there, get into the spotlight again, and hopefully get a win."
Tickets are still available for the Blue Square UK Open, with prices starting at £10 via 0844 871 2932 or in person at the Reebok Stadium Box Office.