While all eyes have been on Simon Gerrans (Orica-GreenEDGE) and Cadel Evans (BMC Racing) in recent days, another Australian has quietly caught the eye with a string of consistent performances. Garmin-Sharp’s Nathan Haas, 24, was not expected to be among the challengers, but his second place into Campbelltown – coupled with team-mate Rohan Dennis losing significant time – means he now leads his team’s charge. His aggressive riding style caused the peloton to split during stage two, and he proved he is capable of more than just a quick, fast turn on the front by sticking with the elite chasing group in stage three.

Furthermore, having seen Gerrans and Diego Ulissi (Lampre-Merida) prevail in sprints so far at the Tour Down Under, he outpaced them both in Campbelltown to earn second place for the stage. His career so far, mostly spent in the service of his team-mates, has been steady if unspectacular, but second place at the 2012 Tour of Britain shows he has potential when it comes to competing for GC honours. Currently fourth overall in Adelaide, a strong final three days could mark the start of a real breakthrough year.