Mark Aitchison will return as a guest rider for his former team this weekend.

Australia’s Mark Aitchison will make a surprise return to the World Superbike stage at Silverstone this weekend, substituting for injured Team Pedercini Kawasaki rider Alexander Lundh aboard a ZX-10R.

The announcement marks a return of sorts for the Aussie who contested his rookie season in the class with the team in 2011.

He was left without a ride earlier in the year after the troubled Effenbert Liberty Ducati team suddenly withdrew from the series.

Aitchison said he looked forward to reuniting with the team but understood that coming to grips with a brand new Superbike in a short space of time would be no easy task.

“I’m obviously very happy for the opportunity to once again be part of Team Pedercini,” said Aitchison. “I have many fond memories of the 2011 season I spent with the Italian team and I am sure that this weekend will add another chapter to our history.

“I honestly do not know what to expect. I have no experience with the bikes the team currently use, and haven’t ridden a motorcycle since the Monza World Superbike race there months ago.”

Aitchison was appreciative of the team seeking out his services and was hopeful of putting together a solid result at a favourite circuit.

“I want to thank the Pedercini family for this great opportunity offered to me and I wish a speedy recovery to Alex Lundh,” he added.

“I’m looking forward to racing at Silverstone, a circuit that I really like, and to working with my new team.”

Aitchison’s best result at the helm of a Team Pedercini Kawasaki Superbike was ninth place at Imola in September, 2011.