Lightly-raced Sports Line can overcome a lengthy absence

LIGHTLY-raced Sports Line is the nap choice to land the 24-runner Blackwater Maiden Hurdle at Cork this afternoon.

The fact he hasn’t been seen for 289 days would ordinarily be a worry, but the manner in which Willie Mullins’ horses are performing greatly reduces such concerns.

The selection appeared to be largely unfancied on his debut in a bumper at Punchestown back in February. Going off at 10-1, he belied the apparent lack of confidence with a smooth success.