Lavilla currently sits just one point ahead of former BSB rival Ryuichi Kiyonari, on the factory-backed Ten Kate machine, but the Japanese put in a confidence-boasting performance during race two at Phillip Island which he will be looking to build on this weekend.

The third Ten Kate machine of Kenan Sofuoglu is equal on points with Kiyonari, but the reigning World Supersport had a tough time at the Valencia test as he seeks to adapt his proven Supersport style to a 1000cc machine.

Others to watch out for will be Yukio Kagayama, set to make his return from injury this weekend, alongside team-mates Nieto and Max Neukirchner (sixth in the points), while DF Racing rider Karl Muggeridge may be a man to watch in qualifying after turning heads by setting the one-lap pace during the Valencia test.

The factory PSG-1 Kawasaki team of Regis Laconi (23rd in points) and Makoto Tamada (19th) will be looking to put a torrid start to the new season behind them, while the World Supersport battle will begin with Josh Brookes four points clear of the surprising Joan Lascorz - riding in front of his home fans.