Britain’s big chance

Two gold medals would see the Brits make a dent on the medals table and most probably climb into the top ten after some impressive silvers and bronzes from unfancied athletes.

The British men's 4x100m team were fastest in qualifying (38.77) despite a series of indifferent baton changes and - errors notwithstanding - should live up to their billing as reigning Olympic champions.

For once Mark Lewis-Francis looked strong and confident, overcoming a deficit handed to him by 200m finalist Marlon Devonish, and their famed team-work could see them overcome poor individual performances once again. Lewis-Francis in particular will be keen to make up for his handling error that cost the Brits Commonwealth glory, while Dwayne Chambers seeks to complete his rehabilitation after coming back from a drugs ban.

The main challenge will come from France, although they will be without World Championship-winning anchor Ladji Doucoure, who pulled up injured in the 110m hurdles semi-final. Italy also look strong, posting the second fastest time in qualifying (38.84), one hundredth of a second quicker than the French.

The British women's 4x100m team were hindered by a poor first handover although competition is much fiercer in European women's sprinting and the medals should be contested by France, Russia, Ukraine and Germany as well as the Brits, who realistically will be aiming for bronze.

The longer relay event almost reverses the potential fortunes of the women and men.

Once the second strongest nation in the world over 400m, Great Britain's threatened resurgence last season appears to have taken a downturn. At this stage last year Tim Benjamin was ranked second in the world behind the indomitable Jeremy Wariner (USA), but his typical cycle of injury and poor form have seen him fail to break 45 seconds this season.

Sixth in the individual final when realistically he should have been winning it, he was however strong and clean in his anchor leg for the relay.

Rhys Williams will however be full of confidence after bagging bronze in the hurdles, while Martyn Rooney and Robert Tobin tend to be quicker in relay splits than when running solo.

The British women - Commonwealth Champions in Sydney - won their semi-final although appeared to be running flat-out to compensate for the absence of star woman Christine Ohuruogu, and will face a stern test for a medal with the Russians overwhelming favourites. Expect them to get at least bronze though and to challenge Belarus for silver.