Racer Craig Cook will captain Great Britain in the Speedway of Nations finals later this month.

The former Workington Comets star is enjoying an excellent season with Glasgow Tigers and King’s Lynn Stars and, with talisman Tai Woffinden sidelined with a serious injury, the captaincy has been handed to Cook.

The 31-year-old, from Cleator, will skipper the team as they look to secure silverware in Togliatti, Russia.

He is joined by Stars team-mate Robert Lambert and former Grand Prix ace Chris Harris.

Speaking to the Tigers’ website, Cook said: “Of course it’s a massive boost to be named Great Britain captain.

“I love racing for my country, it’s one of my big ambitions realised.

“It’s one of my proudest moments.

“It’s not in the manner that I’d ideally like.

“We are obviously missing Tai and he’s been such a brilliant leader for the country.”

The final will take place on July 20 and July 21 and feature Russia, Sweden, Poland, Germany, GB, Australia and Denmark.