PREVIEW: OXFORD v LEICESTER (Champ)

OXFORD will hand a debut to new signing Paul Starke in tonight’s (Wednesday) Cowley clash with Championship leaders Leicester.

Starke has joined the Cheetahs in place of Kyle Newman, who is still receiving treatment for a shoulder injury – but the home side are without skipper Scott Nicholls due to injury, with Erik Riss stepping in to guest.

Oxford also bring in Jordan Jenkins at reserve with Josh Macdonald sidelined, whilst Jason Edwards again steps in for the Lions.

Starke said: “It’s unfortunate how this move has come about given Newcastle’s sad closure. Like everyone connected to the sport, I hope the club can find a solution to return to racing as soon as possible.

“The Championship is a seriously competitive league packed with top class riders and clubs with outstanding history. Oxford is no exception to this and to be part of the club’s regeneration is exciting for me.”

Lions boss Stewart Dickson said: “It’s going to be a tough one, but it’s our last away league match and we need to be trying to get something there.

“We know it will be difficult, but it will be nice if we can add to our away points tally, which would give a higher points total for the other teams to try and achieve.”

OXFORD: Erik Riss, Cameron Heeps, Paul Starke, Aaron Summers, Troy Batchelor, Dillon Ruml, Jordan Jenkins.
LEICESTER: Nick Morris, Connor Mountain, Richie Worrall, Joe Thompson, Kyle Howarth, Jason Edwards, Dan Thompson.