Rich Ricci agonises over Annie Power

Annie Power still appears likely to be added to the Stan James Champion Hurdle field at the supplementary stage on Wednesday as owner Rich Ricci agonises over potential scenarios.

The mare has other Cheltenham options, but was promoted to favouritism for the Champion Hurdle when making a successful return to action at Punchestown last month, just minutes after reigning two-mile king and stablemate Faugheen was ruled out through injury.

Trained by Willie Mullins, Annie Power fell with the Mares’ Hurdle at her mercy 12 months ago, having the year before lost her unbeaten record in the World Hurdle.