PIRATES’ troubled season today took another major setback with the news that Robert Miskowiak had opted to quit Elite League racing.

Poole chief Matt Ford reported that the experienced Pole had cited a lack of confidence when explaining the reasons behind the surprise development.

The announcement completed a dire 24 hours for the Dorset club who also lost recent recruit Tomas H Jonasson to injury following a track crash on the continent.

Miskowiak, who sustained a serious thigh injury in Poole’s opening home meeting of the season against Swindon, had struggled to make an impact this term.

In his two Elite League appearances for Pirates, the 29-year-old failed to register a point in six races.

Pirates promoter Ford said: “Robert contacted me last night and feels he has lost confidence riding in the UK.

“He admitted he didn’t really feel fit enough to ride at King’s Lynn, but was determined to try again on Monday.

“Unfortunately, he felt no different so has reluctantly decided to call time on the UK for this season.

“Robert has asked me to pass on his apologies to all the Poole supporters and would like to thank them for being so patient with him after his crash.

“However, he believes he is hurting both himself and the club by continuing.

“Just after I took the call from Robert, I received the news that THJ (Jonasson) had crashed in Sweden, proving that it never rains but it pours, suffering two cracked ribs and a damaged lung.”

Ford confirmed that Pirates had been given permission to use rider replacement for Miskowiak for 28 days, while Stuart Robson will guest for Jonasson in the Elite League clash at Swindon tomorrow.