Matthew Pinsent: Great Britain is the strongest rowing nation on the planet

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Matthew Pinsent predicts big things for Britain's rowing team (Getty Images)

Britain will show the world why they are the leading rowing nation in the world and can win gold, says four-time Olympic gold medallist Matthew Pinsent.

All of the crews taking part in the action at Eton Dorney have a shot at a medal, proving what a strong team Britain has assembled.

“Going into the Olympic finals, you’d have to say the women’s double of Kath Grainger and Anna Watkins are our best bet for a gold. They’ve been unbeaten all season and looked excellent.

“Just behind them are the women’s pair of Helen Glover and Heather Stanning, who have been similarly dominant in their event.

“Then there’s the men’s coxless four — my old boat — who had the odd blip in the regattas but that’s not a problem. Jurgen Grobler [the head coach] has clearly got them in good shape.

“After that, you’d have to say Mark Hunter and Zac Purchase in the lightweight double. Their event is so competitive now — the other crews have raised the bar every year since Beijing.

“Come the end of the Games, I’m confident we’ll be able to lay claim to being the strongest rowing nation on the planet.