PHIL TAYLOR has been forced to withdraw from the World Seniors Darts Tour Matchplay on medical grounds.
Taylor, 64, had been due to compete in this weekend’s competition in York.
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However, the Power has opted to withdraw from competing after taking medical advice.
The 16-time World Champion and 16-time World Matchplay Champion has been experiencing discomfort in recent weeks following a hip operation.
On the withdrawal, Taylor said: “Naturally, I am gutted to be missing out on playing in such a big event like the WSDT Seniors World Matchplay.
“I have been leaving no stone unturned in preparation for York.
“But after having hip replacement surgery, I have been feeling pain in the last few weeks, and the consultants have advised against playing this weekend.
“I withdrew from playing in a weekend exhibition in Whitby to give myself every chance for the Matchplay, but I have to be sensible, and take the advice I have been given on board.
“Rest assured, I will be doing everything to be ready and fully fit for the WSDT Seniors World Masters in Sunderland in November.”
Despite his withdrawal in a playing capacity, Taylor will be powering through to appear on TNT Sports‘ broadcast team at the Barbican.
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Taylor added: “I’m really pleased to be still be coming to York, and I’m looking forward to working with the team at TNT Sports and WSDT over the weekend and meeting the fans.
“The WSDT work tirelessly to put these events on, and I’m more than happy to help in any way I can.
“It promises to be a fantastic tournament, and there will be a fair few that will be glad I’m not going to be playing, as practice was going very well.”
The winner of the tournament will pocket £10,000.
Other stars playing at the event will include defending champion Leonard Gates, Glen Durrant, Trina Gulliver, Billy Lovell, Chris Mason and Neil Duff.
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