DANNY KIRWAN is a lightly-raced chaser, despite being a ten-year-old. He scored at this venue prior to back-to-back seconds in similar company. The drying ground is expected to prove an advantage – four of his five wins under rules have come on a quick surface – and he appeals as the ideal candidate to be involved at the business end.

This Grade 1 prize revolves around Shishkin, who would land this easily if displaying his best, with 10lb in hand on his rivals. He steps up markedly in distance for the first time and on that basis may be worth taking on, coupled with the fact he disappointed when last seen. PIC D’ORHY is almost guaranteed to arrive in peak form for Paul Nicholls and is highly progressive, after an impressive hat-trick of chase wins this term. He’s worth supporting at the prices, with the potential to eke out another personal best at a winning venue.

A 5lb rise may not be enough to prevent NICKLEBY from registering back-to-back track and trip successes. He won at this course 15 days ago despite plenty going wrong, with the cataylst for improvement a first-time visor. He’s worth backing to confirm the upward turn in form.