Popular New South Welshman Lawson Bopping is hopeful of cementing a deal to remain with Empire Kawasaki for the second half of the season after starring in a guest role during four of the first five rounds in the Pirelli MX Nationals.

Bopping was initially drafted into the squad to fill in for Dylan Long at Wonthaggi, however that was extended for Broadford and then again for the weekend’s double-header at Murray Bridge, which saw the team expand to three riders with the return of Long.

Putting in a number of strong performances, including 11-9 overall finishes in rounds four and five at the weekend, the number 70 will engage in discussion with the Victorian-based operation to see if an arrangement to keep him on can be made, although he acknowledges the commitment on the team’s behalf.

“I’m not quite sure as of right now,” Bopping told MotoOnline.com.au when queried on his future with Empire Kawasaki. “They put me on, and I was only going to do Wonthaggi, and then Dylan was still out for a bit, so I’ve filled in up until now.

“I’ve slowly been getting better during the week practicing, but it’s just not showing on race day yet – I hate to make excuses like that, but it’s the truth. We’ll see how we go – I’ll know more next week I think.

“I’ll have a chat to the team and see what they can do – it’s a big commitment if they do put me on board, because there is the need for a mechanic and everything else that goes on – it’s a big deal. But, I’d love to [stay] – I really enjoy the bike, I love the team and they’re an awesome bunch of guys. Fingers crossed we can work something out.”

After missing the season opener, Bopping is currently positioned 11th in the championship standings. The MX Nationals now heads into an extensive break before returning on 23 June at Gympie in Queensland.