Duke Of Marmalade looks just Champion

LEOPARDSTOWN was hit by torrential rain yesterday, which has prompted a 7am inspection this morning, before the green light can be given for today’s Tattersalls Millions Irish Champion Stakes.

The ground is going to ride, at best, on the soft side and that really complicates the issue. On a decent surface, there is little doubt this could be narrowed down to a match between Duke Of Marmalade and New Approach, but testing conditions often prove a great leveller and a minor shock certainly cannot be ruled out.

It remains to be seen whether Aidan O’Brien will allow the Duke to take his place. There have to be real doubts, but should he decide to do so the son of Danehill remains the one to beat.