ROB CROSS is dreaming of lifting the Unibet Premier League title in his debut appearance at The O2 on Thursday.
The world number three will be hoping for a repeat of his famous World Championship semi-final win over Michael van Gerwen when he faces the Dutchman in the opening game of the evening.
Cross recorded eight wins in his debut Premier League campaign to secure a Play-Off spot, and the reigning World Champion is eager to go all the way on Thursday night.
“I want all the biggest titles in darts and it would be an amazing one to add to my portfolio,” said Cross, who will be playing in his fourth televised semi-final.
“I will go into the match with a fearless mindset - if you want to win it you’ve got to beat the best players.
“I’m happy to be playing Michael in the semis, because he never loses many of the finals he plays in but he has lost a few semis.”
Cross began his debut campaign slowly, losing his opening two matches, before winning eight of his next nine games to cement his place in the Play-Offs and silence any doubters.
“Finishing in the top four is a success in my Premier League debut, at one point I was probably favourite to be relegated after my bad start,” added Cross, who will be aiming to improve his record of two wins from 12 against Van Gerwen.
“It doesn’t worry me that I’ve drawn my last few games because on Thursday we will play on until we have a winner.
“I’ve really enjoyed it, it’s something completely different to anything I’ve experienced before.
“I wouldn’t say I’ve played well every week, some nights I’ve struggled but done enough to keep the points ticking over and make The O2.”
Cross missed the Dutch Darts Masters due to a sternum problem, which has been diagnosed as costochondritis after the World Champion underwent tests and scans over the weekend.
Having rested and begun a course of medication, Cross will be back in action on Thursday at The O2.
“When I come into the night I will feel fresh and ready to play my best darts,” the England World Cup star continued.
Cross also revealed he will have a lucky mascot cheering him on from the crowd on Thursday.
“I’ve got my little boy coming to watch,” added the reigning World Champion.
“The only two games he’s been to before were the semis and the final at the Worlds so hopefully he will be my lucky mascot!”
The Unibet Premier League Play-Offs will be held on Thursday May 17 at The O2 in London. For tickets, visit www.axs.com or call 0844 856 0202.