SHEFFIELD get their title defence underway with a trip to top flight newcomers Oxford on Thursday (March 21, 7.30) The Tru7 Group Tigers enjoyed an unforgettable 2023 campaign and are looking for more of the same this term.

The Steel City side consists of seven riders who represented the club throughout last year with bosses hoping that glory feeling will carry over with them.

They may have missed the victorious Grand Final, but current Grand Prix stars Jack Holder and Tai Woffinden return with 2012 World Champion Chris Holder also back for the start of a British Speedway campaign.

Club captain Kyle Howarth and Josh Pickering will provide the top trio with some solid back up whilst British youngsters Jason Edwards and Dan Gilkes will continue their progression down at reserve.

The Tigers open with a test against Oxford who beat Birmingham 47-43 at home last week - and after spending some time with his team on Wednesday, boss Simon Stead says his side can’t wait to get going.

“We were all at the Premiership Media day together and it was great to see the lads click straight back in,” Stead said.

“Whilst it was great to see them all again and have a bit of a catch up, it was honestly like the winter had never happened.

“The team spirit and the team atmosphere was still on a real high and they can’t wait to get stuck in.

“Oxford have built a solid looking team after coming into the Premiership but we are keen to get off to a good start.

“Because they rode there in the Championship last year, I think the lower part of our team can have a big say on the night.

“But as people already know, I’ve got a huge amount of faith in this team that we can have another great year, so roll on Thursday and let’s get started.”

OXFORD: Maciej Janowski, Charles Wright, Nicolai Klindt, Chris Harris, Rohan Tungate, Lewis Kerr, Ashton Boughen.
SHEFFIELD: Jack Holder, Kyle Howarth, Chris Holder, Josh Pickering, Tai Woffinden, Jason Edwards, Dan Gilkes.