A bunch sprint finish capped Tuesday's opening stage of the Tour of Oman, with Andrea Guardini (Astana Pro Team) taking the victory and the overall lead.

Making his debut for the BMC Racing Team, Damiano Caruso, in 20th, was the squad's best-placed rider.

Alessandro De Marchi was sick with stomach problems so the BMC Racing Team started the six-day race with seven riders.

"He has had gastroenteritis for two days," Dr. Roger Palfreeman said. "It has been quite severe. He was feeling better today but was not able to start. He is still dehydrated. We hope for him to improve progressively over the next two or three days. But he was not fit to take the start, especially with the heat."