TALISMAN Chris Holder insists the class of 2016 is the best Poole Pirates team he has been involved with.

The 2012 world champion has wowed Wimborne Road alongside greats such as Bjarne Pedersen, Darcy Ward, Greg Hancock and Maciej Janowski during eight glory-filled seasons in Dorset.

But Holder believes the lack of another Grand Prix star on a bumper average will give Pirates greater strength in depth as they go in pursuit of a fourth consecutive Elite League crown.

And with in-form Adam Ellis already showcasing his talent at reserve, the Aussie ace cannot see a weak link.

Holder told the Daily Echo: “With how the rules are with the fast-track and averages, we are definitely strong from one to five.

“In Kyle (Newman) and Adam, we have the best reserve combination in the league by far.

“Kyle has always done well but there have been times where we had to search for another fast-track rider.

“To have these two in place gives us the best options in the league, 100 per cent, and the top five can change numbers and ride against anyone without a problem.

"We are as solid as ever and it is really looking good. Maybe in years before, we had Darcy and Maciej as the top guys and not so much strength under them but this time, everyone looks pretty even."

Ellis made no secret of his desire to leave Lakeside and Holder has backed the new boy to fill a reserve position that was a problem for promoter Matt Ford until last season.

"I remember when Adam came here last year and guested for us," Holder continued. "He was really good and on a par with Kyle, for sure.

"He hasn't done many laps round here but with some track time under his belt, he will only get more confident and fast on our track.

"He will improve a lot, especially with a good team atmosphere. He didn't seem to enjoy himself where he was so it should make him ride even better."