Chaz Davies stormed through the field to bag a podium finish in the first World Superbikes race in Thailand.

The Knighton-born rider started ninth on the grid but took the chequered flag in third spot at the Buriram track.

Reigning three-time champion Jonathan Rea claimed his first win of the season from Xavi Fores.

Ducati rider Davies, 31, said: “To start from third row was quite difficult, so I just tried to be patient and let the race come to me.

“I made some passes but, as I raced with a different front tyre compared to my usual choice, I felt like I was learning the bike lap after lap.

“I had a fun fight with Leon Camier, who’s also my neighbour and a good friend, so I’m very happy with this podium.

“Sunday we’ll start from third row but on the outside of the grid, which is better for grip.

“I want to make further improvements with the setup but everybody’s close, so it will be a matter of details”.

Davies is now fifth in the standings with 32 points 26 points behind aruba.it Racing team-mate Marco Melandri who held onto his lead in the standings despite finishing eighth.

But Rea is now just two points behind heading into Sunday’s race.