Right, let’s get away from the nonsense. Serious question. Which will have more passing in 2026; Wimborne Road or the queue at Poole Post Office? Disclaimer: This was not a serious question. All the best for 2026 Pirates. Looking forward to another competitive season.

Not sure if Ritchings average fits, will become a lot clearer tomorrow when Oxford announce there final 2 riders 

Realistically, nope. Major surprise if it wasn't them. But for the sake of debate...if it's not Cook, there are not many around on that average, meaning that Pirates either go a couple of points under the limit with Rushen or sign a 5ish pointer and a 4ish pointer instead. If they have Cook but not Rushen then maybe Daryl Ritchings gets another shot at 7? He did better than expected last year.

It does seem more of a humane alternative

Until he is chucked of this forum for good, this is going to be the norm 

Possibly they don't pay more per point or per mile than other clubs. But have extras like free accommodation, free workshop use and help finding sponsorship. So the cash from the promotion is the same as others, as they claim, but the overall package they organise is better. They also don't hang about, I heard more than 6 months ago that Rushen had agreed to ride for Poole in 2026. I'm not sure how long Wessex Marine have sponsored Rushen but that is likely to play a part in where he ends up given that they also sponsor the Pirates.