THE ‘Cases’ Somerset Rebels have announced their second signing for the 2018 season, and it will see the 2016 Australian under-21 champion Jack Holder join the Rebel camp, writes Ian Belcher.

It is a case of ‘better late than never’ for the 21-year-old New South Walian, as he originally planned to join Somerset in 2015 until a revised starting average saw that move fall through.

Holder eventually joined Plymouth, where he was to spend two seasons before riding for parent club Poole in the Premiership last season, while doubling up with Championship side Peterborough.

He is the youngest of three speedway brothers, as Jack’s eldest sibling James spent two seasons (2010 and 2011) with Somerset, while his other brother Chris was crowned the World Speedway champion in 2012.

Speaking about the signing, Somerset team manager Garry May said: “It might be some three seasons later than planned, but we have finally got our man!

“Jack has made excellent progress since first coming to these shores and has always shown a liking for riding at the Oaktree Arena whenever he has ridden against Somerset in the past.

"I am convinced that he will prove to be a valuable addition to our 2018 septet.”

Holder finished the last campaign with Poole with an official 5.82 average, and joins Richard Lawson (who has re-signed for the Rebels after a successful 2017 which saw him crowned the club's 'Rider of the Year') as the first two confirmed starters for the 2018 Rebels.