On reflection, it was almost inevitable 2012 champion Sir Bradley Wiggins would miss this year’s race.

Having not raced alongside Chris Froome since the ill-feted World Championships last year, and not spoken to him since the team’s pre-season training camp, it is clear little has changed in their fractured relationship.

Injuries and changes to race programmes mean it could have worked out differently. But, despite Tour of California winner Wiggins insisting he would be happy to support Froome this month, a lack of form at the Tour de Suisse meant even the man himself has admitted he lacked the form to make the cut.

It leaves Wiggins, like Millar, with an extended preparation for the Commonwealth Games instead – with a track return now in the offing. Having made no secret of his desire to return to the boards, it is likely to be a must-see start to the latest chapter of his extraordinary career.

Keen to ride Paris-Roubaix again, after a top-ten finish this year, and also keen for another Tour de France start, rumours of a move away from Team Sky have been gathering momentum.

Wherever he ends up, however, do not think for one minute there will not be plenty more to add to his phenomenal palmares.