MICHAEL VAN GERWEN will hit double 12 on Thursday - and is hoping to celebrate his 24th birthday by securing his place in the McCoy's Premier League Darts Play-Offs.
The Dutch ace travels to Birmingham's NIA four points clear at the top of the table, and needs only a point from his clash with Simon Whitlock to be the first player mathematically certain of a place in the semi-finals at The O2 on May 16.
He has won nine and drawn two of his 13 matches so far in his debut Premier League season, continuing the form which saw him win the World Grand Prix last October and reach January's World Championship final.
The youngster admits that sealing his place at The O2 next month will be the ideal way to celebrate his birthday.
"It would be the best present I could ask for if I can beat Simon and be confirmed in the Play-Offs," said van Gerwen.
"I always said I was going to be difficult, especially for my first season in the Premier League, but I'm having an amazing year.
"I think I'll be in the Play-Offs now anyway but I need to make sure of it. I've got three games left and I want to win all three, starting with Simon.
"We always have good games but the last time we played, he beat me 6-1 in the final of a UK Open Qualifier a couple of weeks ago. I missed a lot of doubles in that game and he deserved to win, but I want to get my revenge in Birmingham!"
Tickets for Thursday's McCoy's Premier League Darts at the NIA are still available by calling 0844 338 8000 or visiting www.theticketfactory.com.
McCoy's Premier League Darts
Week 12
April 25 – NIA, Birmingham
Phil Taylor v Adrian Lewis
Simon Whitlock v Michael van Gerwen
Robert Thornton v Andy Hamilton
Raymond van Barneveld v James Wade
Phil Taylor v Simon Whitlock
Adrian Lewis v Robert Thornton