SWEDISH star Thomas H Jonasson has been ruled out of tonight’s Knockout Cup final first leg at Belle Vue due to a bout of flu.

The 22-year old – such a key figure for Castle Cover Pirates in helping the club win the Elite League title last week – has been relaying frantic messages back from Sweden to the Poole management since the weekend.

Pirates boss Matt Ford explained: “Thomas feels and sounds absolutely dreadful. More than anything he wants to be helping the team in our quest for another trophy.

“His doctor has told him he must give his flu condition more time. Our only option is to use the rider replacement facility in his absence.

“The frustrating part for both the club and rider is that the two legs at Belle Vue and Poole are two tracks where Thomas excels – his paid 13 for Pirates at Belle Vue on his debut helped us win in Manchester just over a month ago.

“Like many fans he will follow the results on the Poole website, but he will be sorely missed in the middle order.”

News of Jonasson’s illness means his rides can be taken by Davey Watt, Dennis Andersson and Pirates two reserves Kevin Wolbert and Ricky Wells.

Poole race the Knockout Cup final first leg at Belle Vue tonight with the return at Poole tomorrow.

The Pirates management has reiterated that special admission prices will be in place for the second leg with £10 for adults with kids under 15 going free.

Ford said: “I want to generate another atmosphere like the Elite League play-off final last week and it’s also the management’s way of thanking the supporters with a reduced admission.”