Edvald Boasson Hagen ensured the Tour of Qatar leader's jersey stayed with Dimension Data with a dominant display in the 11km time trial on stage three.
The Norwegian time trial champion completed the course in 13-26, 25 seconds faster than runner-up Jos Van Emden (LottoNL-Jumbo).
The third stage of the race was held over a flat 11.4 kilometre circuit consisting of eight tight turns linked by long straights. Lieuwe Westra (Astana), former Dutch time trial champion, set an early benchmark, before being eclipsed by compatriot Jos van Emden, who set a time 13 minutes 51 seconds.
That time stood until Boasson Hagen, who began the day 18 seconds behind Cavendish, set a time of 13-26, enough to lift him from fifth to first place.
Boasson Hagen was dominant in the time trial. Photo: Yuzuru Sunada
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Heading off last, Cavendish had his work cut out retaining the race lead but shouldn't be too disappointed with his ride. The Manxman lost the lead to his teammate rather than a rival, and finished in a strong seventh position - which points to good form at the start of a season where he has set himself some ambitious goals.
Cavendish still leads the points classification and sits second on GC. The likelihood of cross winds on tomorrow’s 189km stage between Al Zubarah Fort and Madinat Al Shamal means the general classification is far from decided, though Dimension Data are certainly in a strong position.
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Cavendish was not able to retain the overall lead. Photo: Yuzuru Sunada
(Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA)
Tour of Qatar stage three, Lusail-Lusail (11km TT)
Richard is digital editor of Cycling Weekly. Joining the team in 2013, Richard became editor of the website in 2014 and coordinates site content and strategy, leading the news team in coverage of the world's biggest races and working with the tech editor to deliver comprehensive buying guides, reviews, and the latest product news.
An occasional racer, Richard spends most of his time preparing for long-distance touring rides these days, or getting out to the Surrey Hills on the weekend on his Specialized Tarmac SL6 (with an obligatory pub stop of course).
