PREVIEW: OXFORD v EDINBURGH (Champ)

OXFORD round off their first season back in the Championship when they host Edinburgh at Cowley tonight (Wednesday).

The meeting is of more significance to the visitors, who are looking to secure their place in the play-offs, but the Cheetahs’ return to the sport has been one of the major high spots of 2022 even though they have missed out on the top six.

The home side operate rider replacement for the injured Jack Thomas, whilst the Monarchs have declared a full-strength team despite recent injuries for Sam Masters and Josh Pickering.

Oxford co-boss Peter Schroeck said: “It’s been an extraordinary season for all the right reasons for the Cheetahs. Don’t be mistaken, we are disappointed to be ending our Championship campaign outside the play-off frame.

“Oxford is the success story speedway needs right now. In times of such uncertainty, we’ve been fortunate enough to welcome thousands of people through the gate each week and bring the good times back to Sandy Lane.

“Now we hope to repay the favour by ending the year with a victory. Edinburgh are still chasing the play-offs themselves so there’s a lot on the line for our visitors. It goes without saying the racing will be hard but fair, and we need to be ready for that challenge.”

OXFORD: Scott Nicholls, Paul Starke, Jack Thomas R/R, Aaron Summers, Troy Batchelor, Cameron Heeps, Dillon Ruml.
EDINBURGH: Sam Masters, Lasse Fredriksen, Kye Thomson, Paco Castagna, Josh Pickering, James Sarjeant, Jacob Hook.