Denman leads Hennessy field

Denman heads a field of 21 for Saturday’s prestigious Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury.

Paul Nicholls’ star chaser, who won the blue riband event at Cheltenham in 2008, also took this prize two years ago off top weight.

While that performance stunned racegoers, this weekend he faces an even stiffer task off a mark 13lb higher.

Ruby Walsh is back in saddle after Sam Thomas partnered him to his greatest successes to date, with Thomas taking the ride on one of Nicholls’ other runners, What A Friend.

My Will also represents the champion trainer.

Evan Williams is another trainer to hold a strong hand with 2006 winner State Of Play the subject of strong support this week and the choice of stable jockey Paul Moloney.

Cheltenham Foxhunter winner Cappa Bleu also represents the Welsh handler, with Wayne Hutchinson a late replacement for Jamie Moore.

Nicky Henderson, who won the race in 2005 with Trabolgan, relies on Barbers Shop, who is owned by the queen of England.

Howard Johnson sends impressive Aintree winner Killyglen from his County Durham base while Grand National winner Mon Mome runs for Venetia Williams with Aidan Coleman taking over in the saddle.

Nigel Twiston-Davies runs Ballyfitz but has taken out Roll Along.

The Irish challenge is headed by another former Gold Cup winner, Mouse Morris’ War Of Attrition.

Noel Meade also sends over his Grade One-winner Casey Jones while the red-hot Willie Mullins relies on Snowy Morning.

Nenuphar Collonges, Kornati Kid and Gone To Lunch are also among the high-class field.