Big guns stand ground for World hurdle

Inglis Drever and Black Jack Ketchum head the 21 acceptors for the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the confirmation stage.

The winner of the 2005 renewal, Inglis Drever has returned from a lengthy absence this season and proved he is as good as ever with a battling victory at Newbury before chasing home Blazing Bailey in the Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham, giving the winner 8lb.

However, Black Jack Ketchum heads into the race with a question mark hanging over him after a dismal showing in the Cleeve, despite previously being unbeaten.

There is also a doubt over his participation if the ground is testing.

Blazing Bailey will bid to rectify the dismal record of five-year-olds in the race along with Kasbah Bliss, while Mighty Man, third 12 months ago, could go again if the ground dries up.

The novices Flight Leader and Labelthou stand their ground, along with the Champion Hurdle-bound Asian Maze.

An interesting supplementary entry is the Paul Nicholls-trained Natal, who has been campaigned in novice chases this season.

Overstrand, Rhinestone Cowboy, Temoin, United and Over The Creek are other notable contenders.