1

Onesmoothoperator

Didn’t threaten for new trainer when first-up here over 1600m in G2 on 28 February when beaten 7.25L. Extra distance gives him some hope.

2

Paradise Storm

Former French stayer who bolted in the G2 Auckland Cup (3200m) at his last start on 7 March by 6.4L. Hard to beat if handles reduction in distance.

3

Whisky On The Hill

Plain last start in G2 1800m when beat one home for 7.05L sixth when faded after racing handy. Watch for vast improvement at 2600m.

4

Ardakan

Wasn’t disgraced last start when only beating two home in Listed 2500m. Best runs have been when racing on the pace. Needs to lift.

5

Point Nepean

Talented hurdler who last raced over the jumps in April for 2.8L third over 3200m. Has had two good hurdle trials to prepare for this but unlikely to feature here.

6

Desert Hero

Should have finished closer in first-up run for new trainer at this track and over 2000m on 7 March when 3.5L fourth when not much luck. Hasn’t won since 2023 but is a major player here.

7

Highland Blaze

Talented jumper having his first start back since winning the Grand National Hurdle (4200m) last August. Has good 3000m record on the flat and could give cheek at odds after winning two recent hurdle trials.

8

Steel Run

Lightly-raced gelding who has finished third at his past two starts over 2500m. Was only beaten 0.9L here on 14 February when raced handy. Place hope.

9

Noonday Gun

Talented hurdler from the Shane Jackson stable. Has had two trials to prepare for this. Distance not a worry but will find others too slick.

10

Sir Chartwell

Will be fitter after last start sixth of seven, beaten 5.3L over 2000m at Caulfield on 14 March. Distance helps but hasn’t won since 2000m victory in France in 2024.

11

Shamarkand

Former European galloper who has been unplaced in all four Australian runs, including 27.7L tenth over 2400m on 17 January.

12

Bright Legend

Scored a narrow victory at her last start in Listed 2500m at Pakenham on 6 March to cap off some consistent form. Will be finishing strongly. Can be competitive.

13

Litzdeel

Has an excellent record at the track with a win and two seconds from three appearances. Is a G3 2500m winner and has won here over 2800m. Finished 0.75L second over 2000m on 7 March. Hard to beat.