TEAM manager Neil Middleditch believes it would have been "heart breaking" if Pirates new boy Karol Zabik had broken his scaphoid in only his third meeting for the club.

The former world under-21 champion fell heavily during Poole Castle Cover's 51-43 home win over Eastbourne on Good Friday.

It was originally feared Zabik had broken his scaphoid, a bone in his wrist, and that he would be sidelined for six weeks.

But that does not look to be the case as the Pole has informed Pirates chief Matt Ford he will be fit for their home Craven Shield clash against Swindon tomorrow.

Zabik has been in contact with Ford by text and intimated he will have a run out during a practice session in Poland today to test the strength of his wrist.

Middleditch said: "I'm very pleased Karol doesn't believe he has broken his wrist as he was very worried because he thought he'd broken his scaphoid.

"I spoke to his mechanic, who works on Karol's bikes at my place in Sturminster Marshall, over the weekend and he said Karol's left wrist just felt a bit sore.

"It would have been heart breaking if he had broken his wrist in his first few meetings for Poole. It would have been a huge blow to him and to us."

Middleditch, whose side also visit Swindon in the shield on Thursday, added: "It's a good idea for him to have a practice.

"That is the beauty of being a speedway rider from Poland.

"That's why the Poles are such a force.

"They can go to a track at will to practice and as soon as he practises he will know whether he is fit.

"As Matt said, we don't want him to rush back and risk getting another injury.

"We want him to make sure he is 100 per cent fit and happy with his wrist."