The clash of past and present British champions when Comets face Ipswich tonight (7.30pm start) is a mouthwatering prospect for speedway fans, believes Workington manager Tony Jackson.

Comets captain Craig Cook took the British title from Danny King at Belle Vue on Monday night and the pair will go head-to-head in the Championship at the Witches’ Foxhall Stadium tonight.

Jackson said: “Obviously, Danny goes very well around Ipswich but Craig has had some great meetings there, as well.

“It should be quite enthralling speedway between those two.

“It’s quite unlike our track but I think the team we’ve got this year might just do a bit better than we have recently there.

“They are one of the strongest teams on paper.”

After a strong May which saw them climb into the play-offs places, Comets have raced just one fixture so far this month, so Jackson is keen for them to shake off the rust.

Reserve Rob Shuttleworth has recovered from the effects of his crash while racing against the Witches at Derwent Park last month, while Matt Williamson and James Sarjeant will swap places in the team order due to new averages which have come into effect since Comets’ last meeting.

Jackson said: “Matt is confident and, although he realises it’s going to be harder, he also knows it’s going to be the next step in his progression.

“Now he’s in the main body of the team, he wants to stay there because he’s got plenty of ambition.

“James started off in the top five and was struggling a little bit so hopefully this will help get his confidence back.”

Jackson will be absent for tonight’s meeting, with Comets co-promoter Steve Whitehead taking on managerial duties.