Ford thankful Poole captain Cook avoided serious injury while riding for Belle Vue

Danny Ford admitted it would be a “big loss” not to have skipper Ben Cook available for Pirates’ SGB Championship play-off final.  

The Aussie was admitted to hospital earlier this week after crashing in the semi-final play-off in the SGB Premiership, while riding for Belle Vue at Sheffield.

Although scans have revealed no serious injury, Cook did sustain a heavy bout of concussion and under racing rules means he will be stood down for a minimum nine-day mandatory period.

Poole promoter Ford said: "We are obviously disappointed for Ben but I am thankful that he's avoided serious injury.

“He has been fantastic for us all season, both as a rider and a leader. It's a big loss not to have him on the track for the grand final but he'll still be there in the pits, supporting the team.

“We're hoping to have him back for the other finals, but sadly he will miss both legs against Oxford. We will have to bring in guest riders to cover but we will be giving it everything."

Pirates visit Oxford Stadium on Wednesday, before hosting the second leg of the final at Wimborne Road on Friday (both 7.30pm).

Meanwhile, Poole have confirmed the dates of their BSN Series final against Scunthorpe.

Poole will head to the Eddie Wright Raceway on Sunday, September 29 (5.30pm) before the home second leg on Wednesday, October 2 (7.30pm).

(Picture: Tony Hartmann)