Parkalgar Honda ace Craig Jones will be aiming for another podium performance to add to his third place in the World Supersport season-opener as he heads to Phillip Island this weekend.

The Briton challenged at the front of the field for the whole race in Qatar, and the team is confident that he can repeat the feat 'down under' despite the WSS being rated among the most hotly-contested series in motorcycle racing - and in spite of Parkalgar having little experience of Phillip Island.

“It is a very busy start to the season,” explained team manager Simon Buckmaster, “Qatar and Phillip Island being 'flyaway' events only one week apart puts a lot of pressure on the team staff and logistics, but the squad is up for the challenge, and the podium last weekend has got us all off to a positive start - we really believe we can fight for the championship.

“Qatar and Phillip Island are the two circuits on the calendar that we have absolutely no data for, and that means we are a little behind the other teams. Craig has ridden at the circuits previously, but his technicians and team management have changed so, effectively, while he knows the way around, the team is blind to any previous set-up data and that doesn't help. If we can come away from Australia with another podium then that will be a big achievement - and will establish Craig as a title contender."

Team-mate Miguel Praia is on a fast learning curve in the WSS but, after taking 13th at the opening round, the Portuguese racer showed that he has the ability to challenge for the top ten before too long.

“Miguel is doing a great job and has the natural riding ability to race further up the field than 13th," Buckmaster insisted, "It will take some time to realise his true potential but, by the end of the year, we want him racing in the top ten regularly.”