Mahe Drysdale faces a tough semi-final at the Rowing World Cup in Lucerne overnight as he tries to push his world championship credentials

The two-time Olympic single sculls champion posted the best time in the heats on day one, before making his way through the semi-final.

Drysdale and compatriot Robbie Manson are fighting for the World Championship berth, with the best performer in Lucerne to take the spot.

Manson's coach Noel Donaldson says Drysdale will go up against the top scullers from Lithuania and Denmark and the two Germans.

He says the Germans are having the same time of duel around selection they are.