PIRATES BRING IN SMETANA

POOLE have signed Czech Republic racer Ondrej Smetana as a replacement for the released Zane Keleher.

Smetana will make his Championship debut with the Pirates after a proposed move to Newcastle in 2020 fell through following the pandemic.

Poole promoter Matt Ford said: “I am delighted that Ondřej has accepted the chance to join Poole and that our redeclaration has been approved.

“Right now, though, we are currently trying to ensure that he can get clearance to travel to the UK in time for our next meeting on July 13, when we visit Plymouth.

“In Ondřej, I feel that we have a rider very much in form and with plenty to offer, and I welcome him to Poole where he will begin his British career.”