Lucas crashed in wet conditions soon after passing through the 13km checkpoint with the fourth best time.

“Luke is receiving the best of care in hospital and is being well supported by our medical team,” Chef de Mission Anna Meares said. 

“We expect he'll be out of hospital this week and wish him a speedy recovery.” 

Lucas will be replaced by West Australian, Ben O’Connor, 28, who will join Simon Clarke and Michael Matthews for the 272km event. 

Ben placed fourth overall in the Giro d’Italia in May and has been preparing for next month’s Vuelta a España. 

“Ben has performed strongly this season and is currently in top form,” Anna said. 

“He is very motivated to join his team mates for the road race. 

“His talent and versatility provides the team with options in different race scenarios which is highly valuable in a race that has fewer athletes per nation and doesn’t permit the use of race radios by the athletes.”