TIGERS MAN STARTS TOP

TROY Batchelor is ready to take on the challenge of being the top rider in the Premiership with Sheffield.

The Aussie ace is preparing for his Tigers debut at Belle Vue on May 17 – and with the loss of fellow countryman and former World Champion Jason Doyle from the Premiership, Batchelor will start the season top of the league averages.

He said: “It doesn’t worry me. Obviously now not having Doyley means I’ll be expected to be up there, but I’m ready for a new challenge with Sheffield and I’ll do my best.

“All I ever do is go out there and try my best. It was great to be back on the bike recently and I’m really looking forward to joining Sheffield.

“Any No.1 rider has a target on their back, and I’m just looking forward to having a good season because last year wasn’t very good for me.”