Wide open GP ahead

TAKE your pick.

This weekend’s Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix looms as a wide open race with as many as 10 riders in with a shot at the podium.

British Honda rider Cal Crutchlow won the Phillip Island race in 2016 and believes any of several racers have a chance of lifting the trophy by 5pm on Sunday.

“Last year’s race was so tight, many many passes and a lot of riders were able to challenge for the win,’’ said Crutchlow, who finished second to Marc Marquez last Sunday. “If you look on paper now, there are 10 guys who could potentially win the race.’’

Newly crowned MotoGP champion Marquez is favoured to repeat his 2017 island triumph but is wary of a posttitle hangover.

Like this year, Marquez wrapped up the 2014 and 2016 championships in Japan, only to crash in the next outing at Phillip Island.

“I won in Motegi in 2014 and then I came here and I think I can do anything, but I crashed.’’

Aussie Jack Miller is also seen as a contender and believes his Ducati will be suited to the track, even though the highest-placed Ducati rider last year was Scott Redding in 11th.

Miller led his home race early last year only to cook his tyres.

He will be joined on the 4.45km coastal circuit by fellow Australian “Mad” Mike Jones.