RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD insists Phil Taylor remains his 'toughest test' as the pair prepare to clash in the Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts on Thursday.
Van Barneveld has taken over from Taylor as the world number one this year, after the 13-time World Champion endured what, by his own high standards, was a disappointing 2007.
Taylor, though, defeated van Barneveld twice on the way to the Premier League title last year, and suggested he is nearing his best once again with a whitewash win over Wayne Mardle last week in Bournemouth.
"Phil is still the hardest test for me and it will be a tough game," said the Dutchman. "It's always a special occasion.
"People talk about him being out of form but there's nothing wrong with Phil.
"He changed his darts and he believes in them, but maybe players now see that he is beatable and that is fantastic for darts."
Van Barneveld sits at the top of the league table going into week six at the Nottingham Arena, only a point ahead of James Wade.
Adrian Lewis and Terry Jenkins are only two points behind the Dutchman, while Peter Manley and Taylor could move into the play-off places this week with wins.
"I think it's great for everyone that it's a close competition this year," added van Barneveld.
"Last year, probably halfway through the top four were almost decided but this year it's completely open.
"I've got eight points but that isn't enough and I know I have to perform every single week."
Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts
Night Six, Nottingham Arena
Wayne Mardle v James Wade
Adrian Lewis v John Part
Terry Jenkins v Peter Manley
Raymond van Barneveld v Phil Taylor
Live on Sky Sports One from 7.30pm on Thursday March 6
Follow the action live in DartsTV, with Live Audio Commentary for subscribers and a Free Live Scoreboard, along with Highlights available from Friday evening
Click here to purchase the official 2008 Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts programme