BARACOUDA is set to be a surprise runner in the Tote Scoop6 Sandown Handicap Hurdle on Saturday as Francois Doumen’s champion continues his build-up to the Cheltenham Festival.

Seamus Mullins has his string in top form and the Salisbury-based trainer is keeping his fingers crossed that tomorrow’s meeting at Sandown beats the weather after his big-race hopes were given a boost by Kentford Fern’s success at wintry Southwell.

Improving chaser Wonder Weasel can continue his progress with victory in the £70,000 (€114,790) Singer & Friedlander National Trial at Uttoxeter tomorrow.