Triumph boost for Ranjaan

Confidence is building ahead of Ranjaan’s bid for JCB Triumph Hurdle glory after his form received a timely boost at Fontwell on Sunday.

Colin Tizzard’s Third Intention landed the Grade Two National Spirit Hurdle but was behind the Paul Nicholls-trained juvenile at Taunton previously.

Owned by the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing syndicate, he is due to put the finishing touches to his preparation next week.

“He’s absolutely fine at present I understand and fingers crossed he stays that way for the next couple of weeks,” said Highclere’s Harry Herbert.

“He’s due to school next week and we’ve been very happy.

“Paul holds him in very high regard and, fingers crossed, he doesn’t seem to have picked up the cough that’s in the yard, although Paul seems to have got that under control.

“It’s a big boost that Third Intention won the National Spirit yesterday and the form looks very strong. It’s all very exciting and it’s cranking up the nearer we get.”