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Paul Nicholson has revealed the inspiration that reigning world champion Peter Wight has provided him with ahead of his playing return in the twelfth week of Modus Super Series qualifying.
Nicholson, who played from his home practice room during the initial stages of the Modus league in the 2020 lockdown, will step up to the plate on Thursday and Friday night at the Modus Live Lounge in Portsmouth.
The former Players Championship Finals winner will compete alongside Wes Newton, Andy Jenkins, Tony O’Shea and Ritchie Howson in Group B, with the eventual weekly champion come Saturday evening securing the final place in next week’s Stage One Champions Week.
Nicholson is a one-time major champion and World Championship quarter-finalist, now known more for his punditry and commentary. He was a member of the world’s top ten during his pomp, although he’s heading into his return without any pressure.
“I’m under no illusions on how it’s going to be difficult for me and I’m not the player I was,” Nicholson explained in his Sporting Life column. “I don’t have enough time to practice like other players because I have a very tough and busy media schedule but I have been fitting in enough to get a feel for the equipment I’m using.
“I’ll give it everything I’ve got but the mission for Thursday and Friday is to see where I stand with my game – and after that I’ll know what I need to do in the next few months to prepare for Q School.”
Nicholson will be vying to follow in the footsteps of fellow commentator, Chris Mason, who impressed in Group A this week, recording an imposing 103.66 average in one match as well as a 10-darter on the bullseye.
Nicholson’s Super Series invitation, which will provide him with plenty of match practice, marks the beginning of his plan to become ready for a third PDC Qualifying School appearance in January.
World number one Wright, who himself took time away from the sport before excelling further down the line, has provided the Tyneside thrower will plenty of encouragement ahead of his comeback attempt.
“The one player who has inspired me more than anyone else to give this a go is Peter Wright,” Nicholson added, having commentated on both of Wright’s World Championship triumphs for radio coverage.
“You look at what he’s done in his 40s and 50s, the way he’s cultivated his image and created a World Championship-winning formula twice with all his equipment and technique experimentation is extraordinary.
“He has actually contacted me to say he hopes I go to Q School and that if anyone can make a comeback it’s me. And that meant a lot.”
