Bradley Smith is hoping this weekend’s British MotoGP can kick-start his season.

The Oxfordshire Moto2 rider has finished in the points in each of the opening five races this season, but poor qualifying and straight-line speed has seen him struggle to challenge for a podium finish.

He is hoping that will change at his home Grand Prix at Silverstone, where he has been on the podium for the last two years.

He knows it’s going to be tough making it three in a row – but the early signs were very promising.

In yesterday’s practice, Smith recorded the second-quickest time in the morning – when it was raining – and was then third fastest in the dry, afternoon session.

“It was easily the best day of the season so far with second place in the rain this morning and then third in the dry this afternoon,” Smith said.

“It feels so much better to be near the front end of the grid and let’s hope we can continue in qualifying and the race on Sunday.”

The Tech 3 rider appreciates that rain would make it miserable for spectators, but knows that downpours could aid his bid for a top-three finish.

“Racing at home once a year is just like competing in the Olympics – you get just the one chance,” the three-time Grand Prix winner said.

“It can take you two ways – you either crack or raise your game.”

He added: “When it rains our problems do not disappear, but I can make something from the bike.

“I’d like my chances of a home podium to be high, but realistically it needs to rain.

“But whatever happens, I’ll be pushing 100 per cent and the team will do everything they can to get me up the field.”

Today’s vital qualifying session starts at 3.10pm, with the Moto2 race taking place at 11.05am tomorrow.