Fellow Aussie Rory Schlein of Ipswich will compete in both legs, away at Wolverhampton on Tuesday and at home on Thursday.

Panthers legend Sullivan has declined to participate in any further meetings in the UK for 2008. His short-term contract had finished with the completion of the league fixtures last month but it was hoped he would extend his contract.

But Sullivan, who twice helped Panthers to Elite League glory, declined in order to concentrate on his Polish Extraliga play-off commitments with Torun. Panthers were therefore granted a facility to cover for his absence.

Team manager Trevor Swales said: "We are grateful to Rory for agreeing to ride and we are looking to win both legs against Wolverhampton.

"We have had a disappointing season and we aim to go out on a high. We owe the fans a big performance and we also owe one to the owner, Rick Frost, for securing the long-time future of the club.

"The fans have stood by us this season and we want to reward them with a win. Our track staff have also been tremendous in the last couple of weeks doing some much-needed work at the track and a win will be the perfect reward."

If Panthers lose to Wolverhampton they will face either Edinburgh, Rye House or King's Lynn in the final play-off.