Sánchez ordered to rest

As a result of his crash in the recently concluded Critérium du Dauphiné, Samuel Sánchez will be forced to take a couple of days off the bike.

The Euskaltel captain hit the deck hard on day one of the French stage-race. Medical check-ups discarded any fractures though, and the Tour de France podium hopeful duly went on to complete the entire race, stating it was essential if he is to be competitive come July.

An MRI was done this morning to provide a clearer view on the state of the 34-year-old's injuries, and he was diagnosed with an oedema in rib number four on his right side and a muscle strain in his left latissimus dorsi muscle. The team's website reports he'll rest for at least two days before he'll be able to resume training.

Photo: www.procycling.no