Swindon Sprockets will make their eagerly-anticipated return to the shale as they head to the Isle of Wight on Thursday (7pm).
The Curson Consulting Sprockets are back in competitive action having entered the National Trophy for the 2017 campaign.
And team boss Lee Kilby is keen to see them get off to a dream start as their strong side head to Smallbrook.
“I have to say I am really looking forward to Thursday’s trip to the Isle of Wight,” Kilby said. “On paper we’ve put together a team that is more than capable of matching any side in the National League so I’m very optimistic about our chances.
“All the Sprockets have had some competitive action for their respective teams this season, some more than others, but all have ridden well so far and are chomping at the bit to get on track for us.
“I have been so impressed with the attitude of all our Sprockets riders. We’re essentially a select side and are ‘borrowing’ these guys from other teams, but the enthusiasm from the boys towards our goal of winning the Trophy has been spot on and I know we’ll get full commitment from all concerned.
“Unfortunately we’ve been dealt a blow with the news that David Mason has sensibly decided he shouldn’t ride after he took an awkward tumble in Lakeside’s trip to Cradley on Monday evening.
“David hit his head pretty hard and although slightly reluctantly, he has listened to his body and decided he needs to sit this one out. We have a fine replacement for David though in his Lakeside team mate Alfie Bowtell.”
Isle of Wight include former Swindon reserve Nathan Greaves but also have late fitness doubts over Tyler Govier and Rikki Mullins.
Rider replacement will operate for Govier at No.2 if he is not fit to ride, whilst No.8 Jamie Bursill is on standby to step into the No.7 slot if Mullins is ruled out.
ISLE OF WIGHT: Ben Wilson, Tyler Govier, James Cockle, Chris Widman, Nathan Greaves, Jamie Sealey, Rikki Mullins, Jamie Bursill (No.8).
SPROCKETS: Zach Wajtknecht, David Wallinger, Dan Greenwood, Alfie Bowtell, Darryl Ritchings, Layne Cupitt, Taylor Hampshire.
