JASON Doyle reckons the rest of the Speedway Grand Prix field are taking him more seriously this year after a breakout debut 12 months ago.

Swindon Robins skipper Doyle finished fifth in the standings during his maiden GP campaign in 2015, catching many of his rivals by surprise.

However, ahead of the third event of the 2016 series in Horsens, Denmark, this evening, the 30-year-old Australian believes the rest of the riders battling it out to be crowned the world’s best are now all too aware of his talents.

“I didn’t plan to be fifth in the world after my first season. I went under the radar last year. The boys weren’t worried about me as much,” Doyle told speedwaygp.com.

“This year, I think they’re a little more cautious of my racing and a little bit harder, which you get with world-class riders.

“It’s going to be a tough one, but I’m up for the challenge and looking forward to it. I know it’s going to be a hard season, but if I stay fit, anything is possible.”

Doyle enjoyed a brilliant start to the current GP campaign with a second-place finish at the opening event in Slovenia on April 30 but endured a night to forget last time out in Warsaw, Poland, as he finished in 12th spot with five points.

The Aussie has set himself the initial target of a top-eight finish come the end of the year to guarantee him a place back in the field for 2017 and is currently in the last of those positions, eight points behind early leader Chris Holder.

But with nine meetings still to go before the campaign concludes in Melbourne, Australia, in October, Doyle knows he must keep his consistency up to remain in the fight for honours.

“Warsaw wasn’t my best meeting, but that round showed what a great year it’s going to be. It’s going to be very tough, but also very enjoyable,” added Doyle.

“I just have to stay on my bike. I’ve had a few big knocks so far this season, but you’ve just got to enjoy your speedway.

“Last season I enjoyed the GPs, being fresh and it’ll be the same this year.”