Big Zeb back at Navan

Colm Murphy is to give Big Zeb his seasonal debut in the Ladbrokes.com Fortria Chase at Navan on Sunday despite having misgivings about the likely testing conditions.

The smart two-mile chaser is fit enough to do himself justice on what will be his first appearance since he was second to Master Minded in the Kerrygold Champion Chase at Punchestown in April.

“There’s not much else for him. He won’t be in love with the ground but it’s case of starting him off somewhere,” said the County Wexford trainer.

“He’s ready for a run. He’s as fit as we can have him for his first run. With a clear round he should run well.”

The eight-year-old faces four rivals headed by last year’s winner Watson Lake from Noel Meade’s stable. Carthalawn, Made In Taipan and Holly Tree complete the quintet.