Though he has missed out in the two sprints, Tom Boonen (Omega Pharma-Quickstep) is nicely positioned to move into the overall lead after stage three now. With two climbs late in the stage, the parcours is perfectly suited to somebody like Boonen to take control. Peter Sagan (Cannondale) won in 2013 with a well-timed attack, but with Boonen carrying some good form from Qatar, and with a strong team alongside him, he looks well-placed to move into the overall lead.

Currently trailing overall leader Leigh Howard by eight seconds – with ten seconds on offer for the stage win – if Boonen can control matters as comprehensively as he did during the early stages in Qatar, the overall lead certainly seems attainable. It will not be easy by any means though – with several riders itching to stretch their legs over the climbs, he could have several for company if he does try to attack.