PROMOTER Matt Ford confirmed Brady Kurtz had targeted a return to Pirates colours in little more than two weeks.

The former Australian champion has not ridden for Poole since he broke a rib in Poland a fortnight ago.

However, having undergone intensive treatment, the 20-year-old yesterday took to the track alongside Pirates team-mate Jack Holder in the opening round of the World Under-21 Championship at Polish track Poznan.

And Kurtz is hoping to feature when the Dorset club host Rye House in the SGB Premiership on Thursday, August 10.

Ford told the Daily Echo: "Brady is looking to come back early in August so we are not that far away.

"We have missed him at home but Richie Worrall has done a good job. I thank Richie as he has given every effort."

Kurtz could not return any earlier than the meeting against the Rockets as Richie Worrall's deal at Poole lasts a minimum of 28 days, meaning he will remain in the septet until at least Monday, August 7, when Pirates travel to Wolverhampton.

Neil Middleditch's troops are next in action when Somerset visit Wimborne Road on Wednesday. A tough trip to face Alun Rossiter's in-form Swindon side is set to follow 24 hours later.