Northern Ireland's Josh Rock is set to make his Premier League debut at the SSE Arena in Belfast, calling the opportunity 'a dream come true.' The 24-year-old, who predicted his rise to the Premier League stage after winning youth awards, faces Gian van Veen in the quarter-finals after losing all three previous Premier League matches.

Rock enters the tournament winless and bottom of the Premier League table with zero points, alongside Stephen Bunting. Despite defeats to Jonny Clayton, Michael van Gerwen, and Luke Humphries, Rock remains optimistic about his performance. 'I am playing OK, I haven't started off the Premier League as I wanted to, but I have to build the bridge and go over it,' he told BBC Sport NI.

His opponent van Veen, also a Premier League newcomer, brings impressive credentials including reaching the World Championship final and winning the European Championship in 2025. Rock anticipates a hostile reception for van Veen in Belfast, noting the Northern Irish crowd's passion. 'I would be surprised if he didn't get booed, but I think he will get booed the whole game,' Rock said, referencing his own experience playing in Holland. The Premier League has seen three different winners in its opening nights, with Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, and Jonny Clayton claiming victories.