Kauto poser for Nicholls

KAUTO STAR is only a “tentative” entry in this Saturday’s William Hill Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown with trainer Paul Nicholls insisting he will not make a decision as to his participation until later in the week.

The Clive Smith-owned six-year-old, who appeared in magnificent shape as he overlooked his surroundings from his box in Ditcheat on Monday, has become the most talked about horse in jumping after his demolition job in the Betfair Chase at Haydock over a week ago.

That performance was over three miles and he would have to return to two for the Tingle Creek, a Grade One event he won last year when outpointing Ashley Brook by a length and a half.