THIS flat stage is expected to be another one favouring the sprinters, but once again the peloton can expect to be broken up by some breakaway attempts.

With three more intermediate sprint zones, beginning with the one in Kampung Pela (43.2km) and the first categorised climb at Kampung Landas (50.6km), the front of the race will be keenly contested as the battle for the points and mountains classification heats up.

The two remaining intermediate sprints in Dendang (69.7km) and Dungun (104.5km), as well as the final categorised climb in the holiday destination of Kijal 167.7km into the stage, will likely calm the race.

The remainder of the stage is flat and on wide open roads, easing the job of the main bunch to capture any groups of escapees, forming what will again likely be a bunch sprint to the finish line in Jalan Padang, Chukai.