Arkle Finance 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle

Bumper winner at the third time of asking at Towcester (good) over an extended 1m7f in November last year. Well held in the Grade 1 Champion Bumper at Cheltenham subsequently and made a winning debut over hurdles at Ludlow (good) over 2m5f last month. Likely to play a leading role under a penalty here.

Better known for his exploits in chases in recent years including when 2L runner-up off a mark of 138 at the Cheltneham Festival (good) in a 3m2f event in March 2016. Out of form since finishing fourth over the same C&D in December and making his first start over hurdles since December 2014 today.

Maiden after six starts and well held over 2m7f at Worcester (soft) when 26L third of six last month. Ground likely to have been against him on that occasion but more needed if he's to take this.

Market Rasen (good) bumper winner 13 months ago but well beaten in two starts over hurdles including when 70L behind the winner at Ffos Las (good-to-soft) recently. Likely to find a couple too good today.

Stepped up markedly on two previous efforts when dead-heating to win a point-to-point at Inchydoney (good) in April. Form has been boosted in that sphere since and interesting to see how he fares on his rules debut.