THE BASINGSTOKE Bison have shown they mean business this season by making an import squad change only two months into the campaign.

The Herd are currently second in the league, but they have beefed up their impressive offensive line-up even further with the signing of super Czech forward Jaroslav Cesky.

With the team only allowed to ice four imports, the Bison have released defenceman Tomas Fojtik, who has joined Telford, from where Cesky was signed.

Bison boss Doug Sheppard said: “I had the opportunity to strengthen the team. It was a tough decision as Tomas is a great guy and we wish him well, but I feel this has taken the team to the next level.”

Fojtik’s departure will see forward Tony Redmond slot back into defence, while import Greg Chambers can also cover if needed for injuries.

Cesky’s arrival in Basingstoke adds another great pedigree player to the forward line.

This is his fourth season in Britain and in his first with the Bracknell Bees he made an immediate impact, being named the English Premier League Player of the Year.

He amassed 119 points for the Bees in that season, which also saw him net the hit 53 times. The lethal finisher then spent a second year in Bracknell, before moving to Swindon last season.

Talking about his new signing, Bison player/coach Sheppard said: “He is another big impact and game breaking player. I have played against him a number of times and he never has a night off.

“He is very skilful as well as being gritty and his signing means we are pretty deep up front now, which gives us plenty of options.”

Cesky cannot wait to pull on a Herd uniform and said: “I am really excited about coming to the Bison as they have a great team and I want to help them win some trophies.

“I enjoy playing on the big ice in Basingstoke and can’t wait to join my new team.”

The Bison’s new signing will make his debut for the Herd when they entertain title rivals Slough Jets on Saturday, the first of a double header weekend against their Berkshire rivals.