ROBINS v GB LIONS: Kennett eyes international return (From Swindon Advertiser)

ROBINS v GB LIONS: Kennett eyes international return

6:00am Thursday 21st March 2013 in Sport By Andy Warren

NEW Swindon signing Edward Kennett believes he still has something to offer at international level as he prepares to take on fellow countrymen this evening.

The new-look Robins take on a GB Lions side at Blunsdon tonight in their first outing as a team this season, with the likes of Chris Harris, Scott Nicholls and Danny King providing a stern test for Alun Rossiter’s side.

Kennett has represented his country in four World Cups, and would like nothing more than to be back amongst the sport’s elite once again this summer.

“I will be doing the GP qualifiers and I want to be in the World Cup, and I’ve also entered myself into the European Championship qualification but I am waiting to hear who they will put in,” he said.

“You always want to represent you country because it’s something I’m proud to do, and I still think I have something to offer there.

“If things are looking good and I’m scoring good points here then there is no reason why I can’t do that, but we will have to wait and see.”

Kennett is not riding for a club in either the Polish or Swedish leagues in 2013, but may look to pick up some extra rides in Europe later in the season if things go well with the Robins.

“I won’t be riding for a club abroad as such although I will be doing some open meetings abroad and see where we go from there,” he said.

“I’ve ridden abroad before and struggled at times in the past, but once I got on fire with my English clubs then I will look to get back out there.

“Riding abroad can make you or break you, so the timing has to be right.”

Rossiter believes the meeting will play a vital role in preparing his side for the defence of their Elite League title, and is looking forward to seeing Kennett, Kacper Gomolski and Ashley Birks in Robins colours for the first time.

“It should be a terrific night of racing,” he said. “We have riders making their debut in our side so I expect plenty of interest in the meeting.

“I’m pleased Middlo (GB boss Neil Middleditch) has picked such a powerful team and we’re looking forward to a good night.”