Sam Bennett had a very difficult start to his second Tour de France on Saturday, crashing hard inside the final kilometre and being brought to hospital.

The Irish sprinter suffered injuries to his shoulder and finger, leading to fears that he had fractured the latter and also his collarbone. However an examination by doctors showed that his condition was not as serious as this, and he may be able to continue in the race.

His Bora Argon 18 team said that a decision will be made Sunday morning before the start. Ireland's other rider in the race, Dan Martin (Etixx-QuickStep) finished safely in the main bunch behind stage winner Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data).

He was 54th while Bennett limped in 182nd. Sunday’s stage conclusion at Cherbourg is a short, steep uphill ramp and could suit Martin.