1

Calandagan

Races for the first time since his momentous G1 Japan Cup (2400m) victory in November and will look to go one better than a second off an even longer layoff in this race last year. Tough to beat.

2

Ethical Diamond

Outpointed Rebel’s Romance when snaring the G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf (2400m) at long odds in November and must be respected here, even if victory looks something of a stretch.

3

Giavellotto

Was a close second when attempting to defend his G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m) crown at Sha Tin in December before not getting things his own way in a G2 H.H. The Amir Trophy (2400m) third in Qatar last month. Each-way chance.

4

Royal Power

Returned from exactly 12 months on the sidelines with a Listed victory at Abu Dhabi last month but doesn’t have the tools to match it with the best here.

5

By The Book

Lightly raced five-year-old hasn’t missed a place in his six career starts – winning three times to go with a trio of thirds – and he did salute at the course and distance earlier this preparation. This is a significantly tougher test, however, and others appeal more.

6

West Wind Blows

Form has been solid in four starts since his return from a two-year layoff but this is a different task altogether and it’s hard to see him figuring.