Source: Kawasaki Motors Australia.

New Zealand’s John Phillips has officially been named by NPS Monster Energy Kawasaki as the stand-in rider for Jake Moss, who his healing from a broken leg sustained in the MX Nationals pre-season.

As reported by MotoOnline.com.au this morning, Kiwi number three Phillips will compete alongside Adam Monea until Moss is ready to return during the mid-stages of the season.

“The first training session with the team went smoothly today and after familiarising myself with the setup of the KX450F, I think I have the right bike to secure a podium finish at the first round,” 23-year-old Phillips said. “The power of this bike is unreal and if I can get a good start, I will be able to position myself for a shot at the podium.”

Moss has had a troublesome run of injuries this year, but believes that he will be able to challenge for race wins upon return to his KX450F later this year.

“I’m absolutely devastated that this has happened to me!” Moss said. “I was in a great position to take the championship on this year and come out with a lot of wins. I would like to thank the team and all its sponsors for standing by me in such a difficult time and I’m sure I’ll come back and show that I still have what it takes to win.”

Team manager Troy Carroll welcomed Phillips to the team, impressed by his form in the New Zealand nationals at the beginning of this season.

“I was devastated to hear the news of Jake’s injury after all the hard work that he has put in during a recent training camp in the US,” Carroll commented. “It really is unfortunate that this has happened so close to the first round, but I am relieved that we were able to find a strong substitute.

“John has proven himself in the New Zealand motocross nationals and he will take this as an opportunity to establish himself as an international contender and perform well in the first round of the MX nationals.”

Phillips’ debut will take place at Horsham’s season-opening round on 29 March at Horsham in Victoria.