PIRATES star Davey Watt believes Team GB could be “a force to be reckoned with” – providing they can conquer negative vibes.

Watt will be hoping to help Australia draw first blood when they face-off against the Lions in the First Test at Wimborne Road tonight (7.30pm).

The 33-year-old Queenslander is one of four Pirates named in a strong Aussie line-up with Chris Holder, Jason Doyle and Darcy Ward also on parade.

Team GB, managed by Pirates boss Neil Middleditch, are likely to start as underdogs for the series and have seen their preparations disrupted by some bad press.

Already widely tipped to fare poorly in next month’s World Cup when they face defending champions Poland, recent reports have also suggested some riders were none too fussed about the prospect of representing the Lions.

However, despite the furore, Watt is predicting a tough test when the Aussies face Chris Harris, Scott Nicholls, Edward Kennett, Lewis Bridger, Ben Barker, Daniel King and Tai Woofinden.

Previewing the clash, Watt told the Daily Echo: “They haven’t got a bad team and have got huge potential. As much as the doubters and haters want to put them down, I think they have got a very capable team. If they believe that on the night then I am sure they are going to be tough to beat.

“Over the years, Team GB have always had a hard time, whether it has been from the press, their supporters or from within the team itself.

“If they can put aside all that stuff and become a team then they can be a force to be reckoned with. But, if they let it get to them then it could make it easier for us.”

Former Pirates ace Kennett, who will be hoping to feature in next month’s World Cup, admits it will be down to the riders to silence their legion of critics.

Kennett, who won the Elite League with Coventry last season, told the Daily Echo: “We know people are already writing us off for the World Cup but we just have to put it to one side and do our jobs.

“They are bound to say it but that is another day.

“We could all be firing that week and you never know what could happen.

“Down the years, England have always had this thing where the riders have been cricticsed but we have just got to go out and show them.

“We have got to focus and work as a team.”

The cost of entry to tonight’s meeting is £18 for adults, £15 for seniors and £5 for children. Under-fives go free, while a family ticket, including two adults and two children is £40.