SKY SPORTS presenter Polly James could not keep a straight face after darts star Andrew Gilding gave a remarkable answer to a question live on TV.
Gilding, 54, progressed past Dirk van Duijvenbode 11-5 to reach the for just the second time in his career.
The English player was interviewed by Sky Sports on stage at Winter Gardens in Blackpool after his match.
However, his answer to the presenter’s first question left both James and pros stunned.
Goldfinger said: “Thank you. I don’t know what happened.
“I’ve spent two days in the hotel room, getting stiff and come up here today feeling absolutely awful and somehow it happened.”
His answer left viewers stunned, with James revealing she was barely able to keep her composure in a social media post.
She said: “People asking how I kept a straight face..... I bloody didn’t.”
Stunned Glen Durrant - a three-time champion of Lakeside and winner of the Premier League in 2020 - posted: “What was that about Andrew Gilding / stiff / hotel room. I didn’t quite catch it.”
Meanwhile, two-time Women’s Series winner Gemma Hayter said: “Spent two days in the hotel room getting stiff.
“Wonderfully worded Andrew Gilding,” followed by a laughing emoji.
Another fan who was taken aback said: “Andrew Gilding spent two days in the hotel doing WHAT?!”
Continuing on his low-key prep for the tournament, Gilding added: “We went out for fish and chips but that’s about it really...”
Asked what about brings out the best in him, he said: “All the Goldfinger scarves. I’ve got a lot more support over the years.”
On the support he was receiving from fans, the World No28 continued: “It’s amazing. I can’t believe it. Thump my chest for it.”
Gilding concluded by saying he would not be watching the nights remaining games to discover his opponent, admitting he doesn’t care who he plays next.
As it turns out, his next opponent will be reigning world champion .
The to come back from 4-0 down in his second round clash.
Elsewhere, Gian van Veen is taking on James Wade and Stephen Bunting is facing Jonny Clayton.
will face the winner of ‘s clash with Josh Rock.
