Hedgehunter ready for National defence

Hedgehunter is on course for the John Smith’s Grand National on Saturday week but trainer Willie Mullins believes the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up is a “very short price”.

After finishing a gallant second to War Of Attrition in the blue riband, the 10-year-old was slashed in the ante-post lists and is the general 5-1 joint favourite alongside Clan Royal.