Security jump in as darts fan grabs James Wade during walk to stage

James Wade was left visibly distressed after an over-enthusiastic member of tonight's Premier League Darts crowd grabbed him before his clash with Michael van Gerwen.

'The Machine' was making his way to the oche to face the Dutchman when one individual in the audience reached his hand over the barrier for a customary pre-match high-five.

But the fan wouldn't let go of Wade's arm, prompting security to intervene as the Sky Sports cameras cut off.

Staff appeared to give the audience member a stern word as Wade continued to make his way to the stage, fiddling with his wrist as he walked up the stairs.

The 38-year-old was seen adjusting his wrist and hand again when he was on the stage.

The incident may have got to Wade, who was given a warning from referee Russ Bray for attempting to throw his practice darts before Van Gerwen.

Luckily for Wade, his left hand, which is his throwing hand, was untouched during the pre-match incident.

Fans were also unhappy that Wade walked to the stage before Van Gerwen, despite being two places higher than his opponent in the world rankings.

One fan commented: "Did I seriously just see someone in the crowd grab @JamesWade180 hand and not let go?!"

Another said: "PDC darts going to have to stop the hand slapping at walk on. Wade was pulled tonight. Same as William O'Conner at the open."

It is the second week on the spin that Wade has been involved in the some form of pre-match incident on the Premier League stage.

Last week, the veteran walked past the crowd and approached his table – forgetting about the customary sparks that fly from the stage as the game is about to begin.

Stepping back in horror, Wade luckily avoided the worst of the heat and even regrouped to see off the challenge of Gary Anderson and reach the semi-finals.

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