Course:

Simon Gerrans will feel confident of securing another overall win at the Tour Down Under given his current standing, only a serious disaster could scupper such hopes on Stage 5. The 151.5km stage will find its focus placed upon the infamous Willunga Hill, being tackled once, before then finishing the day’s racing atop its summit. The Category 1 ascent is 3km in length and averages 7.5%, but it does fluctuate somewhat from the opening slopes to the decisive upper gradients.

Contenders:

Sergio Henao is clearly the best placed rider to not only take the day’s stage honours, but also overturn the deficit to Simon Gerrans and take the leader’s jersey. Domenico Pozzovivo has already demonstrated encouraging form at the Tour Down Under, though the nature of Willunga Hill might not suit his skills perfectly. Perhaps an outsider such as Julián David Arredondo might even get the better of the tactical battle amongst the obvious favourites and steal Stage 5 from the major contenders.

Outcome:

1st Sergio Henao 2nd Domenico Pozzovivo 3rd Julián David Arredondo