Team Sky have announced a strong squad for the opening race of 2016 at the Tour Down Under.

A favourite among fans and riders alike, the Australian season-opener has become a regular fixture on the WorldTour calendar since 2008, and holds a number of great memories for everyone at Team Sky.

Looking to start the New Year on a high, Sergio Henao will make his debut at the event and is joined by former TDU stage winners Geraint Thomas and Ben Swift. There's a distinct classics feel to the squad, with Luke Rowe, Ian Stannard and Salvatore Puccio all returning to the race, while British national champion Pete Kennaugh will again look to be in the thick of the action. 

Scene of our first ever victory back in 2010, the action kicks off with the People's Choice Classic (January 17) before the race itself runs from January 19-24, with WorldTour points up for grabs.

Featuring a combination of fast sprint finishes and testing climbs, including the famous Willunga Hill, the race is routinely decided by mere seconds on the road.

Team Sky Sport Director Kurt Arvesen said: "We have lots of quality riders in this line-up. This gives us great options and we're confident of putting in another strong team performance at this race. We can't wait to get the season started and we're looking forward to seeing our Australian fans on the roadside."

Last year the team won the Willunga Hill queen stage and finished second with Richie Porte who will be riding for BMC in 2016.

Team Sky's Tour Down Under squad: 

Sergio Henao, Pete Kennaugh, Salvatore Puccio, Luke Rowe, Ian Stannard, Ben Swift and Geraint Thomas.