Cavendish has had a startling first season to date

The 22-year-old, who has claimed six wins in his debut season, described his selection as a "dream come true".

The Isle of Man sprinter, one of four Britons confirmed in the race, will be looking to impress on the opening stage which runs from London to Canterbury.

"To take part in my first Tour is massively exciting, and to do that on home soil will be incredible," he said.

Cavendish joins compatriots David Millar, Bradley Wiggins and Geraint Thomas as confirmed starters, while Liquigas rider Charlie Wegelius is also in the frame for a place on the start line in London on 7 July.

606: DEBATE How will Cavendish fare?

"It's not like he's unproven, we just have to set realistic expectations," said T-Mobile general manager Bob Stapleton, who hopes to see Cavendish and Bernhard Eisel challenging for honours on the flat.

"They will work together and decide who has the best chances and who feels the best for the sprint.

"They've done that successfully at recent races. These guys are riding for each other."

Cavendish's team-mate Roger Hammond failed to make the T-Mobile cut.

T-Mobile: Marcus Burghardt, Mark Cavendish, Bernhard Eisel, Giuseppe Guerini, Linus Gerdemann, Kim Kirchen, Axel Merckx, Michael Rogers & Ptrik Sinkewitz.