Cavendish second at Dubai Tour opener

Old rival Kittel takes victory

Isle of Man cyclist Mark Cavendish was beaten into second place during a bunch sprint finish at the end of the opening stage of the Dubai Tour.

The Manx Missile, riding for new team Dimension Data, couldn't get back on terms with old rival Marcel Kittel who is riding for Cav's old team Etixx-QuickStep.

Kittel was the first to hit the front in the sprint for the line taking a comfortable victory although Cavendish was closing at the end.

Cavendish is defending the title he won last year - there are three stages to go with two of those expected to be fought out by the sprinters.