SKIPPER Troy Batchelor says Swindon Robins have to believe they can win the Elite League if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season.

The Robins head into the 2015 season in just over week’s time as underdogs, with Poole Pirates and King’s Lynn Stars the bookmakers favourites to challenge for honours.

However, Batchelor is bullish over the Robins’ chances but says they must back their own abilities if they are to better last season’s play-off exit.

“You have to aim to win the league, you have to believe you can do that if you want to get there,” said Batchelor.

“Every team looks good on paper but it’s about how you do out there. You can say these guys are the favourites but if they don’t perform under pressure then they could be nowhere.

“We have to work as a team, help each other out, stay away from injuries, finish races and get points home and away.

“If you have a few good wins you build momentum and can carry that on all the way through the year.”

Although Batchelor’s retention of the captaincy for the new Elite League season was pretty much a foregone conclusion, it was only officially confirmed at the Robins’ pre-season and practice day yesterday.

The Australian reckons he is in a better position to lead Swindon into battle now he has a year of being the Robins’ leader under his belt.

“Rosco didn’t ask, he just said carry on,” said 27-year-old Batchelor.

“Last year was my first year as captain, I learned a few things and hopefully this year I can do a better job again.

“Every year you ride you always get more experience. You need to learn from that, put it into practice to be a better person and to be better rider a better team-mate, as well as a better captain.

“I just want to be the best I can be.”