Sprint Cup switch suits Equiano

Equiano will be more at home now that the Ladbrokes Sprint Cup is being run at Doncaster rather than Haydock, according to connections.

The Spanish import is bidding for a second Group One success after winning the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.

However, that race was over the minimum distance while there is an extra furlong to tomorrow’s speed test.

He finished fourth to Borderlescott in the rearranged Nunthorpe Stakes at Newmarket last month, also over five furlongs, on his first run since joining the Barry Hills team.

“I just think they took him off his feet at Newmarket,” said Hills’ son and assistant, Charlie.

“They went flat out and he never travelled and didn’t get any confidence. He stayed on up the hill to finish fourth.

“I know he won a Group One over five furlongs but I think six would really suit him down to the ground. There’s a good bit of stamina on the dam’s side as well. He’s a very laid-back horse. I think the switch from Haydock will probably come into his favour.”