SHEFFIELD Tigers launch their Premier League campaign with a depleted line-up at Rye House on Saturday (7pm).
Argentinian ace Emiliano Sanchez is still struggling with rib and shoulder damage sustained in a crash in the War of the Roses clash with Belle Vue on opening night.
And Ashley Birks, who has made a fine start to life in the second tier of British racing with the club, is in the British Under-21 semi-final at Stoke. He is replaced by National League guest Byron Bekker from Belle Vue Colts.
Club owner Neil Machin said: "It's unfortunate that we're without Ashley because he's been riding really well and of course we wish him well at Stoke and hope he can make it through to the British Under-21 Final.
"But we have made a solid start to the season and we feel we can get something from this trip to Rye House. The lads are up for the challenge.”
