BOUGHEN JOINS CHEETAHS

OXFORD have announced the signing of teenage talent Ashton Boughen who will go into their Cab Direct Championship side having now turned 16.

Boughen, who has starred for Leicester in the NDL this season, will make his Cheetahs debut at Cowley on Friday in the home clash with Plymouth, with Luke Killeen making way although he remains with the club in the third tier.

Manager Peter Schroeck said: “Ashton is one of the most exciting riders to enter British Speedway in many years. His ability on the bike at such a young age is extraordinary and we’re delighted to have him on board.

“Our Championship campaign is entering an important period with only three regular season fixtures to complete before the play-offs begin. It’s critical we finish top of the league to not only send a message out to our opponents, but also secure the route we want to take to the Grand Final.

“We have every faith in Ashton’s ability to help the team achieve this and look forward to welcoming him into the squad on Friday for his debut. At the same time, we are genuinely devastated for Luke to miss out.

“Naturally, he was gutted when we told him the news. But he respected our decision which to me is the sign of a true professional and he will be a major part of our team building plans for 2024 so we can continue our record of helping young riders to progress.”