Friday 23 March 2018 19:15, UK
Mark Cavendish has withdrawn from next month's Commonwealth Games following a crash at Milan-San Remo last weekend.
The 30-time Tour de France stage winner was due to represent the Isle of Man on the Gold Coast, but after sustaining a broken rib and damaged ankle, has adjusted his race schedule and will no longer be travelling to Australia.
Cavendish crashed into a bollard during the final 10k of the the Milan-San Remo on Saturday, coming off his bike and landing on his back.
Cavendish said: "Although it's ultimately positive news that there's been no serious damage sustained following the crash I am hugely disappointed to have to withdraw from the Commonwealth Games."
No time frame has been given for his return but the Tour de France, which starts on July 7, is his major target for this year.
The 32-year-old was unable to compete in the 2014 Commonwealths in Glasgow due to a shoulder injury, but competed in the 2010 Games and also at the 2006 event, where he won scratch race gold.
"I am immensely proud to represent the Isle of Man and was looking forward to a successful Games with the team," Cavendish added.
"However, unfortunately it's just come a little too soon in my recovery. [I] wish them all the very best, and I'll be proudly supporting them from home."
