DINA BOUNCES BACK TO BEAT STRONG FIELD

BACK in Britain and back to the front. A week on from an underwhelming season-opener in Doha, Dina Asher-Smith beat two Olympic medallists to win the 100metres at the Birmingham Diamond League.

The time of 11.11 seconds will not have caused any great alarm to her rivals across the Atlantic, but it was a significant win nonetheless, with Asher-Smith leading a decent field from gun to tape.

Fractionally behind her in 11.12sec was Shericka Jackson, the Jamaican who was third in Tokyo last year, with Olympic 200m bronze medallist Gabrielle Thomas in fifth. Britain’s Daryll Neita, a growing threat, completed the Birmingham podium.

‘The race was tricky and I made a few mistakes,’ said Asher-Smith, who crossed third in the 200m in Doha eight days ago.

‘It does take me a few races to get into my racing and at full focus. But despite the mistakes I was able to get the win, so I am happy.

‘I have three Championships this year and I think it is going to be a very unique summer for athletes.’