Minskset for hurdling debut

Highly-regarded Triumph Hurdle entry Minsk is finally due to make his debut over timber in the Winning Fair Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse on Saturday.

Now with Dessie Hughes, the four-year-old won his final three outings on the level for John Oxx, including the Irish Cesarewitch.

Owner Barry Connell has some grand plans for him, culminating in the Melbourne Cup.

Having apparently taken to schooling well, Minsk is as low as 6-1 for the Triumph, but is unlikely to have an easy introduction this weekend.

Willie Mullins has several entries, with the likes of Darroun, Ut De Sivola and Midnight Oil having already shown a good level of form.

Noel Meade’s Bat Masterson and the Oliver Brady-trained One Cool Shabra are other winners among the 16 entered in the Grade Two heat.

Meanwhile, the Ted Walsh-trained Seabass, winner of his last six starts, is the sole Irish possible for the Racing Plus Chase at Kempton on Saturday.

Planet Of Sound heads the weights following the six-day confirmation stage. Trainer Philip Hobbs, who has won this race four times, plans to use this valuable three-mile handicap as a stepping-stone to the John Smith’s Grand National.

The 10-year-old has not been seen since finishing a creditable second to Carruthers in the Hennessy at Newbury in November – his first run since having a breathing operation.

The 15 remaining entries also include Nacarat, who would be making his fourth successive appearance in the race.

Evan Williams has left in Deep Purple, while Paul Nicholls is double-handed with Royal Charm and Michel Le Bon – as is Colin Tizzard with Mount Oscar and Saturday’s Haydock winner Cannington Brook.

Completing the list are Fiendish Flame, Hector’s Choice, Consigliere, Sarando, Fruity O’Rooney, Billie Magern and Soixante.