James Cracknell has revealed how he was forced to undergo more rigorous psychological tests than his co-stars before being allowed to compete on this year's Strictly Come Dancing .

The athlete, who is paired with Russian dancer Luba Mushtuk, says bosses took special measures before allowing him to sign up to the dance contest – that comes with gruelling training sessions and harsh criticism.

Father of three James, 47, was involved in a serious bike accident nine years ago that almost killed him.

After being struck by a lorry while cycling across America, James escaped with serious brain injuries that effected his memory, ability to learn, sent his vocabulary 'below average' and he developed epilepsy.

James told The Mail on Sunday: "I had to have more tests because of my injury. They wanted to make sure I was OK to go on.

"They had to check I was well enough and able to cope with the hours that are required to take part, and also that I would be mentally strong enough to deal with the judges who – let's face it -would have no choice but to judge me fairly and that might not always be nice."

James was given some tough talk by the judging panel on Saturday night for his jive with Luba.

Acid-tongued Craig Revel Horwood told the pair: "The pancake tossing was the best part of the routine."

After the verbal lashing, James and Luba then found themselves languishing at the bottom of the leader board for the second week running.

The pair had also failed to impress with their tango and were awarded a score off 11in week one.

Craig was particularly scathing with his feedback and gave James a 2.

After being critiqued by the judges, the rowing champion was later seen wiping a tear away from his eye.

Dad James looked downhearted when he walked back up the steps with professional Luba.

The Russian dancer and choreographer held James' hand while he wiped away tears from his eyes before speaking to Claudia Winkleman.

Noticing the rower was looking sad, Claudia asked if he was alright and whether he felt "emotional".

Giving her celeb partner some support, Luba said: "He did such a brilliant job. I'm really, really proud."

James then spoke about his parents, John and Jenny, who were proudly watching in the audience.

He said: "The first thing my dad said to me after I was lucky enough to win the Olympics was 'can you get a proper job now?'"

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