Cav Returns To The Tour De France

Manxman gets called up for another (final?) bite at La Grande Boucle, writes Vern Pitt

- Vern Pitt

The second most successful stage winner in Tour history Mark Cavendish is to make his return to the Tour de France this weekend after a two-year absence.

On Monday Cavendish’s DeceuninckQuick Step team announced the Manx sprinter had been called in to replace defending green jersey holder Sam Bennett, whose training had been disrupted by an injury. Cavendish, who hasn’t finished a Grand Tour since 2015, was clearly pleased at returning to the race where he built the core of his prestigious reputation but said, “Obviously, the circumstances with Sam could be better – he had a special Tour last year and I am sad for him not being able to defend his green jersey.