Cavendish 42nd in Paris

Mark Cavendish struggled in his first race in the world champion's rainbow jersey, finishing 42nd in the Paris-Tours cycling classic yesterday (Sunday).

Fellow British cyclist Ian Stannard finished fourth in a race won by Belgian Greg Van Avermaet.

Cavendish tweeted afterwards: 'Phew, that was a stressful day. A strong wind from the start, with small roads.

'It was a hard race with a worthy winner. Congratulations to Greg Van Avermaet.'

Cavendish and Belgian Philippe Gilbert - both among the pre-race favourites - lost out after becoming boxed in at the back of the peloton.