Poole Pirates add Janowski & Gomolski for Elite League defence

Poole Pirates have announced their final two riders ahead of their defence of the Elite League title.

Maciej Janowski returns as club captain - a role he took over from Darcy Ward following his suspension and ban.

"It's always good to welcome back someone who has been so popular with the fans," Pirates owner Matt Ford told BBC Radio Solent.

Janowski's fellow Pole Kacper Gomolski, formerly with Swindon and Peterborough, completes the Pirates line-up.

Pirates are seeking to win the Elite League for the third successive season and Ford believes Janowski will relish the role as captain.

"Maciej took over the captaincy towards the end of the season when Darcy received his ban," he said.

"It was the making of him, he improved dramatically, even qualifying for the Grand Prix.

"He was the first person I offered a contract to on 30 November, but he is very laid back character when it comes to replying.

"I didn't hear back from him until January, there was also the situation with Darcy Ward and us waiting for the outcome and he's been very patient and understanding.

"He is very at home here, lives with myself and my partner in Poole. He is a great house guest."

The pair will be joined by Chris Holder, Dave Watt, Dakota North, Kyle Newman and Paul Starke in the Pirates team.

Last season's captain Ward has been banned from speedway for 10 months for failing a breathalyser test in August.

The 22-year-old Australian has been given a backdated suspension and will be unavailable until 28 June - halfway through the 2015 season.