TimeformBlog

Junoob won twice at up to 1½m at Lingfield for current yard this year, including in a listed race in February. Below form 2 of last 3 starts, however, and bit to find in this company.

Afsare Royal Ascot winner back in 2010. Some creditable efforts in defeat since, includiing when second to Crackerjack King in Italian Group 1 when last seen in May. Considered under ideal conditions.

Biondetti Won his first 3 starts but lightly raced since. Showed smart form when fourth to Mendip in Group 2 at Meydan on return, but ran poorly in Group 1 there next time. Bit to prove on first run since.

Cai Shen Progress continued in 2011, second in the Brittania prior to making all in a 1¼m minor event at Doncaster. Ran well all 3 starts this term, doing best of those drawn low in Royal Hunt Cup last time.

Songcraft Won both outings for Andre Fabre, and further progress when winning first 2 starts at Meydan for this yard. Stiff task in Sheema Classic (visored) last time but this more his level.

Tazahum Winner of handicap and listed race here last season, but best effort came when second to Green Destiny in Group 3 at York. Pulled too hard on return in April and not to be written off.

Cill Rialaig Enjoyed finest hour when landing Duke of Endinburgh handicap at Royal Ascot in 2010. Winless since, but has generally held form well nonetheless. Not quite up to this level, though.

Farhaan Progressive at 2 yrs, winning twice and respectable fifth in Royal Lodge. Ran well when close fourth to Thought Worthy in 1¼m listed race at Newmarket on return and likely to have more to offer.

Timeform Verdict:
1. Farhaan
2. Songcraft
3. Afsare

Timeform View: A Group race in all but name with some smart performers on show. Songcraft and Afsare will both appreciate the drop in grade after running in Group 1s last time, but preference is for Farhaan, who shaped well on his return at Newmarket and can enhance what is already an impressive strike rate for 3-y-os in this event.

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