WELSH Cycling in conjunction with British Cycling has today confirmed that Abergavenny's Becky James has withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow due to injury.

Speaking of the decision, double world champion James said: “As announced today, unfortunately I will be withdrawing from the Team Wales Cycling squad for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.

"The reason for this is a knee injury sustained following a period of medical rest.

"In May, I received abnormal results from a routine smear test, and following the biopsy results I underwent minor surgery which I’m pleased to say was successful.

"The surgery, however, meant two weeks away from my usual training regime. Following the rest, in an effort to make up for lost time, I aggravated a knee injury that will rule me out of the Games.

"I’m terribly disappointed I won’t be competing in Glasgow, I still hope to be in Glasgow cheering the team on, and wish the entire team the best of luck.”

Matt Cosgrove, performance director at Welsh Cycling said: “Athletes health is our priority. Although it is disappointing that Becky will be absent from the Team Wales cycling squad in Glasgow this summer, it is important that Becky now looks after herself and she is on the road to recovery.

"We look forward to seeing her back on the bike and competing in the near future.”

Chris Jenkins, chief executive Commonwealth Games Council for Wales said: "Although Becky will not be competing in Glasgow we are delighted she is recovering.

"While she will be missed her support of the Team will mean a lot to every athlete. We all look forward to seeing Becky compete again very soon."

James won two Commonwealth medals as an 18-year-old in Delhi four years ago in the sprint and the 500m time trial before claiming sprint and keirin gold at the World Championships in Belarus in February 2013.

Only seven days ago she spoke of her excitement about competing in Glasgow.

“The Commonwealth Games are a big target for me this year,” she told Sky Sports. “I am looking to be on the podium in both events – that’s my goal.

“I’m used to riding as a British athlete and in the GB jersey, but now my team-mates are going to be in other teams.

“But that said, the Welsh people are very passionate and I am sure I will get just as much support, so it should be great.

"The opportunity only comes around once every four years to wear the Welsh jersey and I am really excited about it.”