Sky Sports Darts channel returns on Dec 12

Michael van Gerwen (Sky Sports)

The Sky Sports Darts channel is to return from December 12-January 3, with full coverage of the 2019/2020 William Hill World Darts Championship as part of 22 days of programming.

Sky Sports Arena will be rebranded as Sky Sport Darts from 0600 GMT on Thursday December 12 ahead of the World Championship beginning at Alexandra Palace the following day.

Sky Sports Darts will be on Channel 408 (HD), 862 (SD) and on streaming service NOW TV through a Sky Sports Pass.

The 22 days of non-stop darts programming will see the live coverage of the World Championship accompanied by documentaries, highlights and classic matches.

In addition, certain sessions will be simulcast on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky One throughout the tournament.

Reigning World Champion Michael van Gerwen is eagerly awaiting the tournament's return, and said: "It's always a fantastic time over the festive period at Ally Pally.

"The fans, the atmosphere and the darts are unbelievable. If you can't be there, Sky Sports Darts is your destination from December 12 to January 3.  I hope to be there on New Year's Day in the final and defend my title!"

Raymond van Barneveld (Sky Sports)

Five-time World Champion Raymond van Barneveld will be competing in his final tournament before retirement next month, with the Dutchman adding: "Darts has been my life and this is my last shot at World Championship glory.

"Knowing millions of fans will follow my final journey in the sport on Sky Sports Darts is something special – I just want to prolong my stay at Ally Pally for as long as possible. Winning in my final tournament would be amazing!

"Being crowned the 2007 champion was an incredible experience, and I hope the viewers enjoy this year's tournament as well as the documentaries and classic matches. I’m sure Sky Sports will have my 2007 title win on there!"

The William Hill World Darts Championship is part of a festive season of live action on Sky Sports that includes football from the Premier League, EFL and SPFL, Test match cricket, and more.

Watch the entire William Hill World Darts Championship on the dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel on Channel 408 (HD) or 862 (SD), or with your NOW TV Sky Sports Pass from £5.99 a month*.

* Get five Sky Sports channels on your smartphone with a Sky Sports Mobile Month Pass for £5.99 a month. For all other NOW TV Sky Sports passes please click here.