Deloitte Novice Hurdle (Grade 1)

Willie Mullins has won the last four renewals of this contest and the champion trainer looks primed to add to that tally with six of the ten-runner entry. Separating them is an unenviable task so it seems best to go with Grade One-winning form in SATURNAS, who also gets the nod from the stable jockey. He was good over two-miles here at Christmas and should see out this extra distance no problem. It will be no surprise should runner-up that day Brelade threaten to scupper the Mullins' domination while Barra is also entitled to respect after her Fairyhouse success. Of the remaining Closutton contenders the once-raced winner Bunk Off Early should improve and could have a lot more to offer while Chateau Conti is also capable of having a say. Bacardys could be overlooked amongst his flurry of stable companions but remains a horse with serious potential. 1. Saturnas 2. Bunk Off Early 3. Brelade