ADRIAN LEWIS and Phil Taylor have turned their attention to the start of the McCoy's Premier League Darts following Sunday's Cash Converters World Cup of Darts triumph.
The pair teamed up to represent England in the World Cup of Darts in Hamburg, defeating Australia's Simon Whitlock and Paul Nicholson in a sudden-death leg on Sunday night.
However, the Stoke rivals clash in the biggest game on the opening night of the McCoy's Premier League Darts at the Manchester Arena on Thursday night, meaning their friendship will be put aside for the best of 14 leg meeting.
"The World Cup was great for us both in terms of match practice but I know I'll be putting the work in before Manchester and so will Phil," said Lewis.
"We'll practice together on Tuesday and maybe on Wednesday too before going to Manchester.
"So many players are coming through now and you know that if you're not practising, they are, so you have to put a lot of work in, but I think you will see both Phil and myself at our best on Thursday night."
Lewis had defeated Taylor on both the opening night of last year's Premier League and in the semi-finals, but went on to lose 10-4 to Gary Anderson to be denied the title.
"It's a new season and I'm really looking forward to it," said Lewis. "Losing the final was disappointing last year but I really enjoyed the Premier League.
"I'm excited and it will be a fantastic three months."
Tickets for the McCoy's Premier League Darts opening night at the Manchester Arena are still available on 0844 847 8000 or via www.mcr-arena.com.
McCoy's Premier League Darts
Night One - Thursday February 9
Manchester Arena
Andy Hamilton v James Wade
Simon Whitlock v Raymond van Barneveld
Kevin Painter v Gary Anderson
Adrian Lewis v Phil Taylor
Tickets: 0844 847 8000 or www.mcr-arena.com
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Official Partner - Swan
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