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Vincent van der Voort earned the right to play in next week’s Grand Slam of Darts after winning through Monday’s wildcard qualifier in Wigan.

The rapid Dutchman was one of four men to take up a place at the Wolverhampton tournament as he, Justin Pipe, Peter Wright and Stuart Kellett fought their way through a field of over 180 hopefuls competing for a spot in the televised event.

van der Voort claimed early wins against Stephen Harbert and Dave Honey before seeing off Andy Pearce to set up a crucial clash with in-form Brendan Dolan.

He defeated Saturday’s Players Championship winner 4-3 and went on to beat Martyn Turner 5-2 in the final qualifying round, ensuring a sixth return to the tournament, which gets underway on Saturday.

van der Voort was subsequently drawn in Group D alongside his compatriot and good friend Michael van Gerwen, Belgian ace Kim Huybrechts and Yorkshire’s Dean Winstanley.

By Chris Murphy