STAND-in skipper Darcy Ward is convinced that Greg Hancock-inspired Pirates are firmly in the play-off race – but he is warning his team-mates that now is the time to deliver.

Ward gave his verdict on Pirates’ Elite League title prospects after promoter Matt Ford had announced the stunning signing of speedway legend Hancock.

The double world champion was yesterday snapped up by Poole on loan from Coventry as a replacement for injured Chris Holder.

Hancock, who arrives on an 8.77 average, will join Australian sensation Ward and Polish hotshot Maciej Janowski in a powerhouse Pirates top three.

The 43-year-old also provides a timely boost to Pirates’ play-off chances, with the Dorset team battling Lakeside and King's Lynn for fourth position in the table.

And Ward is urging Pirates to make the most of their opportunity – and the services of Hancock – by hitting top form when it matters most.

Discussing the play-offs, Ward told the Daily Echo: “The goal is to get there. That is what we want to do and if we keep winning home matches like we did on Wednesday, that will bring confidence to the team. We are all there as a team and we just have to put it together.”

Asked if he felt Pirates had a decent chance, Ward replied: “Yes, I think we do, but we all have to pull our finger out at this crunch time of the season. We had a good win on Wednesday which was a bit of a boost.

“Now that Greg has been brought to Poole, everyone in the team is going to be pleased. With me being captain, having Greg Hancock in my team is something that I never would have thought of.”

Popular Poole captain Holder is currently recuperating at his Bearwood home after undergoing surgery on the multiple injuries he suffered in a horror smash at Coventry earlier this month. Compatriot Ward believes Hancock is the best possible replacement and he is excited about the prospect of joining forces with one of his heroes.

Ward added: “We would all love Chris to be there but if Chris isn’t there, Greg is going to be an awesome part of the team. He is probably the best guy Matt could have got if Chris is not going to be riding.

“Greg has done everything you could want to do in speedway and he is also the friendliest guy. He is one of the legends of the sport.”

Hancock will make his Pirates debut at Belle Vue on Monday, subject to paperwork.

Meanwhile, Ford thanked Coventry promoter Mick Horton for giving Pirates the green light to swoop for Bees asset Hancock.