JASON CRUMP VERDICT:

"Just for a change, the Pirates don’t look as dominant on paper. But you can never underestimate a team run by Neil Middleditch. He has a habit of getting the best out of every rider under his wing.

"Richard Lawson is consistent and they will look to Lewis Kerr to be the same. Anders Rowe and Zach Cook have potential. The introduction of Will Cairns will be huge mid-season. It will be interesting to see how he copes with the Championship."

PIRATES STARTING LINE-UP:

Richard Lawson

Zach Cook

Lewis Kerr

Anders Rowe

Tobias Thomsen

Paul Starke

Matt Marson

William Cairns (when 16)