Walsh confirmed as Brave Inca’s pilot in Champion Hurdle defence bid

COLM Murphy has confirmed Ruby Walsh will take the reins on Brave Inca when he attempts to defend his crown in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle next Tuesday.

Walsh had been set to partner Desert Quest for Paul Nicholls in the two-mile showpiece but the Ditcheat maestro has instead opted to aim for back-to-back Vincent O’Brien County Hurdles with his charge.

And with Brave Inca’s regular partner Tony McCoy riding Straw Bear for retained owner JP McManus, the way was paved for Walsh to take over at the Cheltenham Festival.