WSBK: Max Biaggi leads the way in Sepang

Two-time world champion Max Biaggi began the second part of his World Superbike comeback with a time of two minutes and 4.823 seconds to set the pace early at the Sepang circuit.

Biaggi made his initial return at Misano last month and the Italian made the most of his second wildcard appearance on Friday, topping the timesheets early before rain set in.

The 44-year-old hit the front in the early stages of the session and never looked like relinquishing first place, finishing quicker than British pair Chaz Davies and Jonathan Rea.

The latter can win the title this weekend but was among those to opt against competing in second practice as heavy rain set in between sessions.

While rain stopped by the start of second practice, the circuit took time to dry, Davies recording the best effort with a two mins and 11.300secs ahead of Alex Lowes and Leon Haslam.

Both improved as the track dried but the weather means Saturday's third practice takes on increased importance.