Signed as Team Sky’s man for one-day races and as a sprinting option, Edvald Boasson Hagen enjoyed a successful stint with the team but without truly living up to his potential.

However, the two-time Eneco Tour winner’s switch to MTN-Qhubeka is undoubtedly a coup for the African tea, in prising the Norwegian away from racing at WorldTour level – where teams were interested in his services.

Boasson Hagen, who played an important part in both Sir Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome’s Tour de France wins, has signed a two year deal with the team.

And he insists he is not concerned about the step down from professional cycling’s top tier.

He said: “It´s been five great seasons with Team Sky, but the time has come to seek new challenges. MTN-Qhubeka has a very good platform and a framework that fits me very well, so I´m sure this is a very good choice for the next seasons.

“I´ve had several options for the future, among them also World Tour teams. But after some consideration this is the team I most of all want to ride for in the future.

“They are upgrading the team for next season, but already this year they have received wild cards for most of the races I would like to do next year.

“The team takes part in the Vuelta right now, which is their first Grand Tour. For next year they are targeting the Tour. So I feel safe about the race program, and I really look forward to focus on new goals in the MTN-Qhubeka jersey.”