ITV’s new darts coverage got off to a rather embarrassing start on Thursday evening when the broadcaster misspelt their lead presenter’s name.
The error occurred within just moments of going on air.
Pete Graves, the 43-year-old former Sky Sports anchor recruited to front the channel’s darts programming, saw his surname incorrectly displayed as “Greaves” during the opening of the Winmau World Masters in Milton Keynes.
The on-screen blunder came after Graves had shared his enthusiasm about the new role on social media.
It was far from an ideal start for the presenter, who launched what he described as “a new era” in the coverage.
Prior to the broadcast, Graves had posted on X about his excitement for the evening’s coverage, writing: “A new era begins tonight I’m presenting the darts live for @OfficialPDC.”
He added: “The Winmau World Masters is live on ITV4 from 7pm and streamed live on ITVX and PDCTV. All the big names in action. Tune in!”
The presenter was recruited by ITV from Sky Sports, where he had established himself as a familiar face in darts broadcasting.
ITV’s new darts coverage got off to a rather embarrassing start on Thursday evening when the broadcaster misspelt their lead presenter’s name
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ITV
His move to the terrestrial broadcaster marks a significant shift in his career as he takes on the lead presenting role for the channel’s arrows coverage.
Graves steps into the role vacated by Jacqui Oatley, who departed following the Players Championship Finals last November.
The popular presenter had occupied the position for more than ten years, meaning Graves faces considerable expectations in his new post.
He will not be working alone, however, as Gabbie Partington has been brought in to share presenting responsibilities throughout the season.
The error occurred within just moments of going on air
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GETTY
Partington is already an established figure at World Series of Darts events and is reportedly friends with fellow ITV presenter Laura Woods.
The pair will alternate duties as ITV looks to establish its refreshed darts broadcasting team.
ITV has also secured the services of Wayne Mardle, a five-time World Darts Championship semi-finalist who has been a prominent voice for Sky at Alexandra Palace.
Dan Dawson, another regular on Sky’s coverage, joins the commentary team alongside Mark Wilson, Chris Mason and Mark Webster.
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Thursday’s action at the World Masters featured Gary Anderson, Gerwyn Price, Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen.
The tournament’s biggest names, including Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, are scheduled to compete on Friday.
They will pursue the title that Humphries, known as ‘Cool Hand’, claimed 12 months ago.
