The double World Cup champion has proved dominant on his home track in the last three seasons, but will come under pressure from the Netherlands’ Niek Kimmann, the reigning world champion.

Having opted not to compete in the opening round of the series at Santiago del Estero, Argentina, Phillips will be hoping to get his season off to a flying start.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there, I’ve done some good work and I’m ready to race,” he said.

“Of course there’s pressure as there are a couple of thousand people who come to watch, having a home winner is great for everybody. 

“The track is super challenging, it will make for great racing.”

America’s Connor Fields and Corben Sharrah, the winner of the opening round, will among the contenders for podium finishes.

Competition will begin tomorrow on the revamped track at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester, with riders tackling the time trials and qualifying motos, ahead of the supercross finals on Sunday (April 10).

After settling for second place in the opening round of the series, Colombia’s Olympic champion Mariana Pajon will be targeting a return to the top of the podium in the women’s event.

Australia’s Caroline Buchanan, though, will seek back-to-back victories over the reigning World Cup champion.