TimeformBlog

Duncan is a quirky sort who showed his better side when narrowly landing the Group 2 Prix Foy at Longchamp in September. He is capable fresh and the yard is in good form ahead of this return, but he does have his stamina to prove at this longer trip.

Askar Tau is a smart performer who has gone with renewed zest this term, readily pulling clear when landing the Group 3 Sagaro Stakes at Ascot last month. He is sure to make his presence felt if in a similar mood here.

Blue Bajan was second in this race in 2009 and showed he still has plenty to offer when sixth in the Chester Cup on his belated return earlier this month. That said, it's likely he's going to come up short in this company.

Buxted quickly progressed into a useful performer in 2010, winning three times. He ended the campaign with a good third in the two-mile Jockey Club Cup at Newmarket, but this is altogether tougher on his return.

Electrolyser took his form to a new level when placed in the Sagaro Stakes and Goodwood Cup in 2010. He ended the year on a low note but has place claims here if all is well, with the yard in good form ahead of this return.

Free Agent looked a possible Cup performer in the making when winning twice in 2010, including over this course and distance, but was rather laboured when third to Askar Tau at Ascot recently and is tried in cheekpieces now.

Manighar confirmed himself as good as ever in 2010 with a series of creditable efforts at up to two miles in top company, despite drawing a blank. He is respected if fully tuned up but could find a few too good once more.

Native Ruler missed the whole of 2010 and was much improved on his belated return when narrowly denied in the Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket last month. He is bred to stay this far and is a serious contender so long as this race doesn't come too soon.

Clowance returned from another lengthy break when easily landing the Group 3 St Simon Stakes at Newbury in October. She has as good a chance as any on the book, but would need more rain to fall to warrant support here.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1.    Native Ruler
2.    Askar Tau
3.    Duncan

Timeform View: Course-winner Askar Tau comes here at the top of his game and looks sure to make another bold bid, but preference is for Native Ruler, who could have even more to offer at this longer trip (half-brother to St Leger winner Sixties Icon). Duncan is another to consider, while Clowance would enter the argument if the ground eases.

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