Murphy thrilled by Best Mate call-up

TIMMY MURPHY yesterday spoke of his delight at the prospect of riding triple Gold Cup winner Best Mate in the William Hill Chase at Exeter on Friday.

Henrietta Knight had earlier ended speculation as to who would deputise for the injured Jim Culloty on the nine-year-old by announcing the name of the Irishman, who had already made a trip to her Wantage yard to sit on the horse.

Murphy has been in phenomenal form lately, riding seven winners for his new boss Martin Pipe at the Open meeting at Cheltenham last weekend.