REIGNING champion Ulrich Ostergaard has been given the chance to defend his Premier League Riders' Championship crown after all.

The 'T Balfe Construction' Panthers skipper has accepted a late call-up into the prestigious individual event at Sheffield tomorrow (Sunday, 5.30pm).

Ostergaard steps in to replace Newcastle man Robert Lambert, who has pulled out, and Peterborough promoter Ged Rathbone is delighted to see the holder included.

He said: “I’m really pleased for Ulrich that he will have the chance to defend his title.

“He got the call from the BSPA earlier this evening and has immediately packed his bag and headed to the airport to fly back to the UK.

“He has had a very tough time of late, but he was also struggling for form ahead of the PLRC last season and then beat the best riders in the league to lift the trophy.

"That success meant a lot to him and everyone connected to Peterborough."



Ostergaard’s inclusion means Peterborough will have two chances of glory at Owlerton Stadium as the high-class line-up also features number one Craig Cook.

The World Cup silver medallist will start as one of the favourites to capture a crown he last won in 2012.

Rathbone added: “Everyone knows my view on Craig – I regard him as the best rider in the Premier League and his performances for us this season have emphasised that.

“There is a lot of talent in the PLRC line-up, but if Craig brings his ‘A’ game to the party, he will take a hell of a lot of stopping.”

PREMIER LEAGUE RIDERS’ CHAMPIONSHIP LINE-UP: Steve Worrall, Craig Cook, Jack Holder, Edward Kennett, Sam Masters, Claus Vissing, Danny King, Aaron Summers, David Bellego, Richard Lawson, Robert Lambert, Josh Auty, Kevin Doolan, Simon Stead, Josh Grajczonek, Ricky Wells. RESERVES: Jack Smith, Chris Widman.