Widespread reports suggest rising British star Adam Yates will not be on the Tour de France start line for Orica-GreenEDGE, which would be a huge shame if true. Once again the Bury-born ace was in stunning form, sealing another fine result in his incredible neo pro year.

The Tour of Turkey winner was eighth on stage two and then third on stages five and eight as he showed off his incredible climbing talent once again. After a packed race calendar to date, which has also included the white jersey at the Tour de San Luis and fifth overall at the Tour of California, Yates will now – according to reports – enjoy a well-earned rest.

But can the Australian really ignore his incredible form ahead of the Tour de France? Riding with no pressure, the 21-year-old has looked in sensational shape and with no other real GC option – though the likes of Simon Gerrans and Daryl Impey will compete for stage wins – is he worth a chance?

Last year, Peter Kennaugh was fast-tracked into Team Sky’s Tour de France squad – Rod Ellingworth telling RCUK afterwards that, although it meant the rest of his season was written off, it was too good an opportunity for him not to be given it.

A Grand Depart in his home country, with some sensational results behind him – perhaps the same should ring true of Adam Yates this year?