Murt Khan heads to Stratford this afternoon and his best bet runs in the novice handicap chase.
Sunday preview
The early pace will be interesting in the novice handicap chase at Stratford as both Barza and Deise Vu made the running last time. Barza seems a bit of a short runner and I feel this track will suit him more than Ffos Las where he finished runner-up last time.
Deise Vu won well on his most recent start over course and distance. I'm not sure what the form amounts to but a 5lb rise seems reasonably lenient.
Ballycash has been consistent over hurdles and could improve for fences. He's still a maiden but he has a lot going for him today. His jumping will need to be sharp first time over fences as Stratford is a quick track and horses can find themselves out of their comfort zone if hesitant at their obstacles.
My selection is The Wexfordian. He makes his debut for Martin Hill having been claimed from the yard of Martin Keighley.
Like Ballycash, he is still a maiden and has been consistent over hurdles. He has finished second on his last three starts and his attitude may be questioned. I just think he's not the easiest ride in the world. He shows a lot more flair than a 102 rated horse in his races and tends to travel strongly.
Two starts back he ran over chases at Southwell, jumping a lot better than on his seasonal debut at Leicester. I felt at Southwell he hit the front too soon, similar to his run three starts back over hurdles. He ran another good race last time out and has since changed hands.
He should relish the sharp track today and I'm hopeful he will get a decent pace to aim at. I would like him to be ridden with confidence and if things drop right I can see him losing his maiden tag today.
Sporting Life suggestion: The Wexfordian, 4.40 Stratford at 5/1
Saturday review
The Dutchman looked slightly uncomfortable from an early stage under Daryl Jacob. He was always racing a little behind the bridle and faded late on. The only feasible reason is that the ground may have been too quick for him. Gilt Shadow is thriving at present and won well - he could go for a big prize during the summer.
Posted at 0810 BST on 23/04/17.
