Kyle Busch to run Banknorth 250 at OPS

Kyle Busch, the leading rookie in the Nextel Cup points standings, will join 2003 Nextel Cup points champion Matt Kenseth in the field for the 32nd annual Banknorth 250 at Oxford Plains Speedway on July 31.

Busch, who turned 20 on May 2, is currently 27th in points with two top-10s in 10 races including a second. He finished second in points in the Busch Series last season thanks to five wins, 16 top-fives and 22 top-10s.

Busch’s older brother Kurt, who won the Nextel Cup points championship last year, finished 13th in his Banknorth 250 debut last year after starting 35th. Busch had a prior commitment and couldn’t return this season.

Kyle Busch will collaborate with car owners Steve Perry and Scott Pullen and veteran driver Mike Rowe of SP2 Motorsports.

“Kurt told me all about this race and how hard he had to work just to qualify for the feature,” said Kyle Busch in a press release. “He talked about what a tough little track it was. I know he was disappointed not to win, so maybe I can get bragging rights and take home that big trophy. At this stage of my career, you want to get as much seat time and face as much tough competition as possible. I’ve heard so much about what a big event the Banknorth 250 is and I’m excited to give it a shot.”