BIRMINGHAM have added Rye House regular Ritchie Hawkins to their squad as cover for the unavailable Tyson Nelson.

BIRMINGHAM have added Rye House regular Ritchie Hawkins to their squad as cover for the unavailable Tyson Nelson.

Hawkins, 29, will share a team position with Josh Auty for the Selco Brummies until Nelson is able to return from Australia, having seen the start of his season delayed by paperwork issues.

Hawkins previously rode for boss Graham Drury at Workington, and is set to go into his second season with Rye House at Premier League level.

Drury said: “I had a couple of riders in mind to bring in once it was obvious we had a problem with Nelson but I know Ritchie, I worked with him at Workington and he’s a good lad.

“He knows Josh Auty will start the season as the first choice for doubling-up but we will give Ritchie opportunities and I’m sure he will be looking to take them with both hands.”