Nicholls has no grounds for concern
The going at the Esher track is now soft on the chase course and although clerk of the course Andrew Cooper is “extremely optimistic” of racing going ahead, he has called a precautionary inspection for 7.30am.
Kauto Star will be making just his fourth chase start in the Grade One feature over two miles.
The five-year-old took high order in the novice ranks last season before his campaign was cut short through injury and Nicholls has been keen to remind punters of his lack of experience.
“To be honest it might help him,” said Nicholls. “It’s not that soft on the chase course yet, but if there was more rain they probably wouldn’t go so quick in the early stages.
“As he is a less-experienced horse, that would be in his favour.”
Kauto Star ran on very soft ground in his native France and conditions were also on the slow side when he finished second behind Monkerhostin in the Haldon Gold Cup on his reappearance last month.
“He’s got some form on soft ground and it was pretty soft when he was second to Monkerhostin at Exeter,” Nicholls added.
