PIRATES new boy Robert Miskowiak is convinced he can claim his first Elite League title this season and insists: “We have a big chance.”

The 29-year-old believes riding for Poole will present him with the ideal opportunity to land his maiden championship on these shores.

Experienced Miskowiak will begin 2013 as Pirates’ number four after being drafted in on loan from Ipswich with a starting average of 5.81.

The 2004 world under-21 king arrives in Dorset on the back of a strong Polish campaign last year when he beat the likes of Antonio Lindback and Davey Watt to top the Division One averages.

Miskowiak has previously represented Ipswich and Wolverhampton in the Elite League – but the Polish race ace thinks he can finally land the big prize with Pirates.

He told the Daily Echo: “I am looking forward to the challenge because it is a different club. It is similar to a Polish track and I think I should really enjoy it.

“Every year, they challenge for the title. We have a top team for 2013 and I think I will really enjoy getting good results to try to get to the play-offs. Then, in the play-offs, maybe we could enjoy some good results and win the championship, which would be the first in my career in England.

“I am really excited about that. We will try and see what happens. I think we have a big chance of doing that and really achieving something.

“I will try to prepare my best for the season. I will manage everything as well as I can with my equipment and engines. I am expecting a good season in Britain.”

Miskowiak will be tasked with registering some vital middle-order points in support of powerhouse top three Darcy Ward, Chris Holder and Maciej Janowski. He is particularly looking forward to joining forces with the Turbo Twins.

Miskowiak added: “They have a great deal of experience of riding on that track and I think they can give me some advice. I am really pleased to be able to ride with them in England.”

Pirates will today hold their annual press and practice day at Wimborne Road. They will then begin their season with a two-legged Elite Shield showdown against rivals Swindon at the Abbey Stadium tomorrow (7.30pm) with the return leg on Good Friday (noon).