SWINDON Robins boss Alun Rossiter believes Troy Batchelor is on track to make his Elite League Riders’ Championship title defence this month.

Batchelor is expected to take his place at Leicester for the showpiece event on Saturday March 21 – subject to his visa going through on time.

He will be joined by Nick Morris in the first major event of the season as new signing Adrain Miedzinski has his testimonial in Poland which was arranged before he agreed a deal with the Robins.

Rossiter said: “We have been working closely with officials of UK Visa and Immigration and we thank them for their help and assistance so far.

“We hope to have everything cleared for Batch to defend his title at Leicester and I know how keen he is and ready to race.

“I’m sure he will have plenty of determination to try and retain his ELRC title which he won at King’s Lynn late last season.

“It will be a big night for Nick, too, and I’m sure he will enjoy the experience.

“It’s a shame Adrian can’t do it, but his testimonial was planned before he signed for us to ride in England so we can understand and accept his absence.”

A bumper crowd is expected at Blunsdon for this Sunday’s Ben Fund Bonanza - the traditional season opener.

Money raised will go to the Speedway Riders’ Benevolent Fund to assist injured and retired riders.

The action starts at 4pm.