1

Algiers

Previously a grass performer over further, but seems at home on dirt and judging by two strong efforts at Jebel Ali – latterly outgalloping 11 rivals in a local G3 over this trip.

2

Alkaamel

His last win came on the Meydan turf though he also has some good dirt credentials over this course and distance. But ratings would not give him an obvious chance.

3

Celtic Prince

Returns to action just six days after a decisive 4l success in a 1600m Jebel Ali handicap, shouldering top weight. Up in grade but in good shape and always tries hard.

4

Desert Wisdom

Runner-up twice over this course and distance in January. Likely to race prominently, he is ridden by Adrie de Vries who is enjoying a very successful spell.

5

Duca Di Como

Plenty of success over this sort of trip and various different surfaces in Scandinavia. Faded out late on over 1400m on his Meydan debut.

6

Erzindjan

Connections are bravely trying him on this dirt surface again considering he was beaten out of sight when trying it for the first time last month.

7

Golden Goal

Kicked into the lead 500m out he sprang a surprise win in a G2 here in January, then skipped a target as his trainer thought he had had a hard race that day. A big player.

8

Imperial Empire

Formerly a grass horse who now seems improved for a dirt surface judging by a terrific winning performance here last time even if able to exploit a low gate over 1400m.

9

Mouheeb

Career highlight so far was a hard fought but deserved G3 victory over this course and distance last year and possibilities here if repeating that. Lightly raced since.

10

Mubakker

Has surprised his trainer with his continued progress, latterly when strong in the closing stages to win over 1400m here under this rider. Pedigree hopeful about this longer trip.

11

Royal Mews

This gelding has had problems with long gaps between races but his trainer may well have found the key judging by his winning romp here last month.

12

Strongconstitution

Some smart Californian form before arriving in Meydan, finishing strongly past fading rivals when second to a smart local rival in a G3 here in February.

13

Tuz

Formerly trained in Russia, he has had gaps between races and his trainer describes him as ‘a challenge’. Effective in this class, showing that on various occasions.

14

Down On Da Bayou

Withdrawn

15

Soft Whisper

Supporters will hope she returns to the Meydan sparkle of her very easy win in a dirt Listed event over this course and distance last year. Competing on turf lately.