Richards looking forward to Kauto clash

Nicky Richards is in positive mood as he looks ahead to the extended two-mile-five-furlong Ascot Chase, in which his stable star Monet’s Garden could clash with Kauto Star.

Richards’ grey won the Grade One when it was run over two miles and three furlongs last term, but may have to trump Paul Nicholls’ Gold Cup favourite if he is to secure back-to-back renewals.

Of the possibility of taking on Kauto Star on February 16, Richards said: “It will make it very interesting.