Tour Down Under 2020: Stage 5 preview

Mat Hayman's view

This stage normally involves a hard start getting out of town, and there could be crosswinds again. The finish into Victor Harbor can also be tricky. We've had a few editions of the race where this stage has provided some exposed sections. The climb at the end shouldn't break things up too much. Maybe some of the off-form European sprinters who can't handle the heat might struggle, but overall this should be decided by another bunch sprint.

It's a really tricky finish, though – especially the last kilometre. There are a couple of points where you need to be in the right position if you want to be in the running.

The last corner, which is still a long way from the finish line, is still key. You don't want to be first and you want at least one lead-out rider in front of you. When you nail the lead-out, you can make this one look easy, though. You just don't want things to get too messy.