St Leger runner-up ILLINOIS could be just the type of Ballydoyle 4yo to go to the next level this season and he gets the nod on his return to action. He has to concede 5lb to the race-fit Absurde, however, who should be a very tough opponent. The highly admirable Group 3 winner Al Qareem could also be involved.[Ben Hutton]
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Won the Group 2 Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm) last June and went close in the St Leger (14.5f, good) in September before Group 2 win at Longchamp (1m7f, soft) in October; trainer has won three of the last six runnings; leading claims if at the top of his game on his reappearance.
Prominent-racer who made it 2-2 here with Listed win last September (1m4f, soft), and he landed the Group 3 Cumberland Lodge at Ascot (1m4f, soft) in October; narrow Listed win at Nottingham (1m6f, good) last month on his second start of the season and he's entitled to respect.
Listed winner here (14.4f, good) last August on sole course visit and highly creditable fifth in the Melbourne Cup next time; arrives fit from hurdling, having defied a lofty mark at Plumpton 18 days ago; receives 5lb from Illinois and he's a major player.
Kept on well for fourth in Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot (1m4f, good to firm) last June and could have potential at this new trip now back on the Flat, having gone 0-3 over hurdles this year for his new yard; however, this is a hot race and others hold stronger form claims.
Made debut last April and showed strong 1m4f handicap form last July/October (good/good to soft); respectable fourth on reappearance at Kempton (1m3f, AW) in March and this 4yo could still have more to offer, but a leap of improvement is needed if he's to make an impact today.
After a stint over jumps he reverted to the Flat for a new yard in January and won three AW handicaps in a row (1m6f/2m); needs a career best if he's to win today, however, and he was below par at Newcastle last time.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
