“I can't complain”: Marco Bezzecchi’s cancelled lap was faster than Martin

Martin led the standings with a 1m 29.826s in the closing minutes, but when the Pramac Ducati title contender then fell it resulted in a 1m 29.798s by Bezzecchi being erased due to the yellow flags.

Nevertheless, the injured VR46 rider, on pole as a rookie at Buriram a year ago, still progressed safely through to Saturday’s Qualifying 2 courtesy of sixth place.

“This morning I didn't want to put too much stress on the shoulder, so I started a bit carefully. And after, with the used tyre, it was difficult to improve,” Bezzecchi said.

“But this afternoon, I found something on the bike that gave me the possibility to ride better. Still on the pace, I need to find two or three tenths, but in the time attack, I was really fast.

“Unfortunately, I got the yellow flag from Jorge. If not, I was probably first, but I can't complain. The target of today was to go to Q2, so I'm happy.”

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While the Italian, third in the world championship, is confident of fighting for pole tomorrow, he hopes the late set-up change that worked so well with the soft tyre will also boost his race pace.

“It was strange because I made two runs and then we made a risky modification for the time attack and I felt much, much better,” Bezzecchi said. “So I'm curious to try it with the used tyre to see how I feel.

“But until that moment I was struggling with grip. A lot of problems with traction, especially end of sector 2 and all the sector 3. After with a new tyre and the modification I felt better. But the new tyre also helped, so I want to see tomorrow.”

Bezzecchi admitted his physical condition from a recently fractured collarbone is a concern over the full race distance.

“I can't push every lap, I have to make short runs and riding like this is more difficult to find the perfect setting,” he said. “But anyway, I feel not too bad. The arm is better. I have a lot of pain in the neck, in the hard brakings, that here are a lot. But for sure if I am there, yes, [I will be able to fight].”

Casting an eye over his opponents, the Italian added: “From what I saw from the box, Aleix [Espargaro] was really quick. The Aprilias overall are always quick when the grip level is low, but for sure Jorge Martin, Pecco… I don't know, Diggia was quick. I think everyone! The standings are very tight. Luca was quick also.”

Team-mate Luca Marini was fifth fastest.