SWINDON Robins rider Troy Batchelor insists he still has what it takes to beat the best riders in the world ahead of the new British speedway season.

A former Grand Prix rider, Batchelor was a vital member of last season’s double-winning Robins side and is eyeing more of the same in the coming campaign when the season starts on March 26.

The Australian will begin his third season of his third spell at the Abbey, and the 32-year-old says the new track was one of the main reasons to accept another contract under Alun Rossiter.

Speaking to Swindon Robins’ website, Batchelor said: “Swindon is one of my favourite tracks now. The track staff did a great job reshaping it and we’re all looking forward to the new season now.

“It was a great achievement to win the double like we did and had a lot of laughs along the way too, hopefully we can do the same again this year and pick up the trophies.

“I’ve rebuilt my career over the last couple of years and being at Swindon has helped me with that.”

Batchelor featured in two full seasons of Grand Prix racing in 2014 and 2015 following a solitary appearance as a guest in the 2013 Polish Grand Prix.

Though he may have aspirations of entering the top tier of individual speedway once again, Batchelor says he will only take part if he has a chance to win.

He said: “I’ve stayed clear of injury and tried to rebuild the finances since coming out of the Grand Prix.

“If I was to be back in that I would only do it to be competitive and to win. I know I can beat the best riders in the world.”