Workington Comets star Craig Cook will captain Great Britain as they aim for Speedway World Cup glory.

Comets' skipper, of Cleator, will lead the Lions in the opening clash with Australia, the USA and the Czech Republic at King's Lynn on July 1 as they look to book their place in the final at Leszno, Poland, on July 8.

Cook was part of the Great Britain side which finished second in last year's World Cup and said it would be a "huge honour" to take on the role of captain after Grand Prix ace Tai Woffinden elected not to ride for his country this year.

He said: "I feel like I've been riding well enough and it will be good to be part of it again. It's great to be in front of so many riders.

"Obviously without Woffy this year it's going to be a little bit harder but a lot of people won't expect anything from us so we can relax a bit.

"It's enjoyable but it's an odd event because there's a lot of things going on all day, you've got to be in places at certain times so it can be quite hectic.

"It's the big one so it's going to be good to get over to Poland and do a bit of testing."

Cook's appointment drew approval from speedway fans on social media and team boss Alun Rossiter spoke highly of the 30-year-old, who will also represent his country at the Speedway World Games in Poland on July 29.

Rossiter said: "With the World Cup coming up we had a tough decision to make, but I'm pleased to name Cookie as captain.

"I could've gone with one of the more experienced guys, but I just feel it's something Craig will thrive on.

"Some people might see it as pressure, but I don't see it like that. I think it will bring out the best in him.

"I've seen Mark Lemon has had faith in him at Belle Vue and that seems to have paid off, so hopefully he can have the same impact for us in the World Cup.

"I've spoken to him about it and I know he's extremely passionate and up for the challenge."

Cook is joined in the World Cup squad by former Grand Prix riders Chris Harris and Scott Nicholls, British Champion Danny King, Robert Lambert, Steve and Richie Worrall, Comets asset Kyle Howarth, Adam Ellis and Josh Bates.