Australian Josh Brookes will make his debut in the Lightweight TT class this year after doing a deal with Ryan Farquhar to ride for the IEG/KMR Kawasaki squad.

Brookes has been looking for ways to increase his track time at this year’s festival as he had only a Superbike and Senior entry with Norton but will now have at least the 650cc twin to ride as he replaces Hudson Kennaugh.

The 33-year old, who will be making his third appearance at the TT, will be the fourth rider in an already formidable looking line-up at KMR Kawasaki that also features Lee Johnston, Peter Hickman and Danny Webb. It’s a team packed with talent and pedigree and one that Farquhar is extremely proud of and while results are never guaranteed, he certainly has a great chance of success.

“When Hudson withdrew from the North West 200 and TT, my immediate focus was on the North West and Michael did an absolutely brilliant job to take a race win after stepping in at the last minute,” said Farquhar.

“He’d already agreed to ride the Paton at the TT though so wasn’t available but having had tentative talks with Josh over the winter, I’m now delighted to welcome him on board. Having a ride of that pedigree riding for KMR is a terrific coup and I’m really looking forward to working with him.

“We were a little bit down on top speed at the North West but Michael showed what the bike was capable of, particularly in the handling department, and with four incredibly talented riders on the KMR Kawasaki’s, we’re confident of having a good TT. It’s going to be hard work, without doubt, but all four riders are more than capable of standing on the podium so we’ll be giving it our best shot.”