ORICA-BikeExchange head into the Dutch semi-classic Arnhem-Veenendaal on Friday, with a tight knit team, blending youth versatility and experience.

The 198.5kilometre route is dotted with typically short and sharp climbs but is generally quite flat and traditionally ends in a bunch sprint with the wind usually contributing heavily to proceedings.

Sport director Dave McPartland is looking forward to the race.

“Veenendaal is a mainly flat semi-classic which typically ends in a bunch sprint,” said McPartland. “We go jnto this years race without a pure sprinter but we have Australian Mitch Docker who is one of the best lead out men in the business, so it will be good for him to get the opportunity to have a crack himself.

“We have a compact and balanced squad lined up and we will certainly be ready for all situations especially considering the wind which is always a factor in these Dutch races."

Neo-pro Robert Power will make his pro debut. He was forced to put his career on hold in November due to Bone Marrow Oedema Syndrome – a form of bone stress with an MRI appearance similar to a bone bruise but not related to trauma and without obvious explanation.

“We are very pleased to welcome back our neo-pro Robert Power after a long and tough period off the bike. It is great for him to finally join us and pin on a race number with ORICA-BikeExchange. As you can imagine he is very excited to finally begin racing with the team.”

Joining Docker and Power will be new signing Carlos Verona who heads up the Spanish trio alongside Ruben Plaza and Amets Txurruka providing the team with the injections of speed over the races short ascents.

Canadian powerhouse Christian Meier completes the line up and as usual will play a vital role as the engine room and linchpin of the six-man team.

The Arnhem-Veenendaal takes place on Friday the 19th of August in the Netherlands at 2.30pm CEST.

ORICA-BikeExchange at Arnhem-Veenendaal Classic (Friday, 19th August):

Mitch Docker (AUS, VIC, 29)

Christian Meier (CAN, 31)

Ruben Plaza (ESP, 36)

Robert Power (AUS, WA, 20)

Amets Txurruka (ESP, 32)

Carlos Verona (ESP, 23)