Conflict ready for jumping bow

Paul Nicholls is hoping conditions at Wincanton do not become too testing as he prepares to unleash his exciting prospect Conflictofinterest in the Paul Nicholls Racing “National Hunt” Novices’ Hurdle on Sunday.

The six-year-old really caught the eye when trotting up in an Ayr bumper back in April and while Nicholls admits he does hold the gelding in high regard, the prospect of soft ground is a worry for the champion trainer.

“He would be one of our more exciting novice hurdlers but I’m just hoping there is not too much rain at Wincanton,” said Nicholls.

“It’s on the slow side at the moment and there is more rain forecast tomorrow, but hopefully it will be dry on Sunday.

“I was thrilled with him at Ayr but that was on decent ground and while I’m looking forward to running him, I am slightly nervous about it getting too soft.”