Rohan Dennis "is still an underdog in the general classification" as he defends Romandie lead

Rohan Dennis didn't come to the Tour de Romandie as a big contender for the overall classification, however the first half of the race has shown that his ambitions surround that goal. The Australian has so far shown very good form, and will be tough to crack on tomorrow's queen stage to Zinal.

Jumbo-Visma DS told after the stage that the team raced according to plan, and remains positive on the ambitions of Rohan Dennis towards the overall classification. “The team has done a phenomenal job. Michel Hessmann was again responsible for a large part of the pursuit. He also ensured that the breakaway group with some strong riders was caught again. Robert Gesink, Sepp Kuss and Steven kept Dennis well in front in the final stage," he said.

Dennis once again looked rock solid in the final climb of the day, only this time racing defensively, as he covered the attack of Marc Hirschi over the top that saw several dangerous riders following the Swiss' wheel.

Aand in the fast sprint, he grabbed the wheels of Patrick Bevin and Ethan Hayter to snatch a third place, which has expanded his lead by another four seconds. "The fact that Rohan then rode a good sprint and took some bonification seconds is particularly clever. In my opinion, Rohan is still an underdog in the general classification because of what is to come. We are definitely in good shape," he concluded. With the two decisive stages now looming on the final days, the general classification is far from safe, however Dennis is clearly on tremendous form and will be hard to dislodge off the lead.

He will have to face the strong teams of BORA - Hansgrohe, Bahrain - Victorious and Geraint Thomas tomorrow - those being the main favourites - and it will be a crucial test for his climbing skills.