Robert Thornton begins his defence of the Unibet World Grand Prix title this evening as the £400,000 double-start tournament begins at Dublin's Citywest Hotel.
Scottish ace Thornton stunned world number one Michael van Gerwen with a thrilling performance as he claimed the title 12 months ago with a narrow 5-4 win in the final.
The world number seven will open up his challenge to retain the £100,000 title against Stephen Bunting when the 32-player event commences at 7pm.
Having also hit a nine-dart finish two years ago, an achievement made more memorable with the need to both begin and end every leg with a double, Thornton has fond memories of the Citywest Hotel as he prepares to face Bunting.
"It meant everything to me to win last year and it is really good tournament for me because my big strength is double top," he added.
"My form hasn't been the best since winning it but I'm sure it will come back in Dublin because I feel so comfortable there.
"I can give anybody a game on my day and I'm quietly confident it can all click together for me again."
Sunday's opening session also features World Champion Gary Anderson taking on Jamie Caven, world number three Adrian Lewis up against Jelle Klaasen and two-time champion James Wade meeting Terry Jenkins in a repeat of the 2007 final.
Irish throwers Brendan Dolan, Daryl Gurney and Mick McGowan are all in action on Monday evening.
Schedule of Play
Kyle Anderson v Cristo Reyes
Ian White v Kim Huybrechts
James Wade (6) v Terry Jenkins
Gerwyn Price v Benito van de Pas
Adrian Lewis (3) v Jelle Klaasen
Robert Thornton (7) v Stephen Bunting
Gary Anderson (2) v Jamie Caven
Mervyn King v Raymond van Barneveld
