Of those BMC Racing riders, one in particular has given a timely reminder of his ability – Britain’s Steve Cummings. Part of Cadel Evans’ support team at the Giro d’Italia last year, the Wirral-born rider earned widespread plaudits for his efforts in Italy. He completed the race despite battling illness and the torrential weather, helping Evans to third overall. And here in Dubai, Cummings has proved he has what it takes to play a key role again this year.

The terrain and conditions in Dubai are, of course, as far from those likely to greet the riders in Ireland at the Grand Partenza in May, but Cummings has laid a solid foundation for the rest of the season. Having already put in a big effort as part of the BMC Racing team driving the bunch throughout the stage, when Lampre-Merida’s Rui Costa went clear in the final kilometres, he dug deep to catch the world champion and keep the race together again. With his time-trialling ability already proven, Cummings would certainly be a valuable addition to any Grand Tour team and on this form must certainly be under consideration for a fifth career Giro d’Italia.