Gerwyn Price forced to withdraw from major darts tournament just hours before match against Raymond van Barneveld

GERWYN PRICE has withdrawn from the Czech Darts Open due to injury.

The Welshman was set to face Raymond van Barneveld tonight in the second round of the competition.

But Price has pulled out because of a trapped nerve in his neck.

He has been replaced by Maik Kuivenhoven from the reserve list.

Fans were left devastated by the news, with one saying: "Gerwyn is a character and the game is boring without characters. Hope he gets well soon."

Another added: "Injury prone darts player."

A third worried: "He might have to retire soon."

Supporters are panicked because this is not the first time Price has had to withdraw from an event due to a nerve problem.

Back in May, he decided not to play in the Premier League event in Aberdeen.

But he instead cited nerve trouble in his back rather than his neck.

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Price's decision provides Kuivenhoven with a massive chance to qualify for the World Championship as the appearance seems him climb the PDC order of merit.

He will pocket £2,500 even if he loses to Van Barneveld in Prague this evening.