Factory Aprilia wild-card entry Bradley Smith explained that some debris from Karel Abraham’s Ducati was the cause behind his nasty high-side in the second MotoGP free practice session of the day.

The Brit, making his second appearance of the season, hit some debris that had been left on the track after Abraham’s earlier crash, sending Smith into the gravel at turn five.

Smith was taken to the medical centre for a check-up and came back clear with nothing more than bumps and bruises, with his ankles causing particular discomfort.

“Unfortunately, I hit some debris that was left on the track after Abraham’s crash and that made me lose control of the bike,” Smith explained. “I was thrown by a high side and I fell right in the middle of the track.

“Fortunately, the other riders avoided me and nothing is broken, although both my ankles are sore.

“It’s a pity. I was doing a good lap. In any case, I’m pleased with the work done today. We are moving in the right direction and I think we’ll be able to keep going the same way tomorrow.”