DARTS star Ricky Evans is set to return to the oche today following the sudden passing of his sister.
The fans’ favourite sadly lost his younger sibling Elisha earlier this month.
GettyRicky Evans makes his return to the oche today[/caption]
Instagram / @dartinghunk180His sister (middle right) sadly died earlier this month[/caption]
Evans lost to Dave Chisnall at the UK Open the day before his sister passed away on February 28 and has not played since.
But the 34-year-old returns to action at the fifth Players Championship event of the year this afternoon, facing Nathan Rafferty in the first round.
Evans wrote on social media this morning: “Back to the day job, and two Players Championship events in Leicester.
“I played OK at the UK Open, and felt unlucky to miss out against Dave, but I’m focused on getting some good results here.
“Thanks for the love you’ve given me over the last couple of weeks.”
Fans are delighted to see him back, with one commenting: “Good luck mate.”
Another added: “Go smash it.”
Evans revealed the devastating news of his sister’s death by posting several images of them together and writing: “My beautiful little sister Elisha… I love you so much. I’ll always be your best friend.”
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The darts world has supported him, including fellow player Ross Smith, who wrote on X: “Very sorry to hear this awful news. Sending love to Ricky and his family.”
Evans, who made the third round of the World Championships earlier this year, is one of the most popular players on tour.
The world No43 nicknamed ‘Rapid Ricky’ due to his speed of play gained several fans at Ally Pally last year due to his eye-catching walk-ons and outfits.
When he beat Chisnall at on December 23, he wore a festive-themed outfit and made his way to the stage while Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin Stevens blasted out the speakers.
He later invited fans over to his place for Christmas, saying: “Every time they started singing my name, I thought ‘stop it, shut up, start singing his name’, because I kept getting goosebumps.
“I had it in my head, I got a bit emotional. Stop calling my name because I’ll start playing poo now.
“I don’t understand why they’re calling my name? But more the merrier, keep going.
“You’re welcome to come to the Evans household, we can sing Feliz Navidad and watch Gavin and Stacey together.”
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