IN A remarkable parallel with what happened to Dennis Priestley 25 years ago, BDO world darts champion Scott Waites was dropped by his pub team the day after securing the title.

Bradford-born Waites, who thrashed Canadian opponent Jeff Smith 7-1 in the final at Lakeside, was ready to play again 24 hours later in the Golcar League, having done little partying due to a cold.

However, his skipper decided that the 38-year-old Calderdale carpenter – who also won the title in 2013 – was surplus to requirements.

Waites, who works for Pennine Housing 2000, explained that there were seven players for five places in the team, so someone always had to sit out.

When he had turned up for the match at 8.25pm, it became clear he would only have a supporting role.

"My name was not on the teamsheet," said an amused Waites, who added that his Commercial side had still won.

He revealed that he had been replaced in the team by a Lakeside spectator – someone who had gone along to support him.

Priestley had beaten Eric Bristow but was left out of the Balby Bridge WMC team in Doncaster against Kinsley but they still won 6-2.