Pete CooperNorthamptonshire
PA Media
“Rapid” Ricky Evans is known for his Christmas-theme outfits at the World Championships.
Darts player Ricky Evans said he “can’t wait to play” in his 11th PDC World Darts Championship, which starts later this week.
The world number 40 will take on Hong Kong’s Man Lok Leung at Alexandra Palace in London on Friday.
Kettering’s Evans is nicknamed “Rapid” and is well-known for his Christmas-themed outfits at the tournament, which takes place over the festive period.
The 35-year-old said: “I would walk on with reindeer if I could, but maybe that’s a step too far.”
This year’s World Darts Championship begins on Thursday, with the final taking place on 3 January.
Luke Littler, 18, is looking to defend his title after becoming darts’ youngest world champion earlier this year.
PA Media
Evans is set for his 11th World Championship
Evans hopes to progress past the last 32 – his best result.
He told BBC Radio Northampton’s Annabel Amos: “I’m excited to be on the biggest stage of them all. I can’t wait to play.
“You think it would be nerve-wracking, but I’ve got used to it now.
“I get the little goosebumps before they call my name, as that’s as nervous as I get.”
He said he would wear a “wonderful Christmas shirt and Christmas trousers” as well have some festive props for his walk on.
Littler, a nominee for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year for a second time, has been credited with generating huge interest in the sport.
Evans said he had noticed darts profile rising and more young becoming interested in the game.
He said: “There are darts academy and schools for kids playing darts, it’s unbelievable.
“When I was a kid it was playing football or rugby in the park, now boys and girls are playing darts.”
