Cyrname comeback

CYRNAME (3.35, ITV) can get back on track by making it a second victory in today’s Betfair Ascot Chase.

After winning today’s Grade One event at Ascot two years ago Cyrname became the highest-rated jump horse in the country.

He further justified the accolade when beating Altior at Ascot last season, but since that victory his rating – and his career – has come crashing down.

He took a thumping fall in this race last year and looked reluctant in the King GeorgeVI Chase at Kempton, pulling up.

Trainer Paul Nicholls, above, is not taking any chances with the gelding, who has 13lb in hand over his rivals, with cheekpieces worn for the first time.

Earlier, progressive HURRICANE HARVEY (1.50, nb, ITV) can take the Reynoldstown Chase.

This former smart hurdler has taken well to fences and there was plenty to like about his victory over Milanford at Doncaster last time out.

JERRYSBACK (2.25, nap, ITV) is the pick of the four J P McManus runners in the Betfair Swinley Chase. He is weighted to beat Regal Encore after finishing third to the gelding on his seasonal return at this course in December.

The handicapper has not hammered ARRIVEDERCI (3.00, ITV), up 2lb after his promising second to the smart Craigneiche at this track last month.

At Haydock, LISNAGAR OSCAR (2.05, ITV), winner of last year’s Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, is expected to go close after a recent breathing operation.

The progressive ENQARDE (2.40, ITV) is shooting up the ratings but will still be hard to catch off his bottom weight in the Grand National Trial Chase.

After Goshen’s disappointing run behind SONG FOR SOMEONE (3.18, ITV4) at Cheltenham in December it’s hard to imagine him turning the tables on that rival at Wincanton.

At Riyadh, CHARLATAN (5.40, RACETV, SKY) looks the answer in the Saudi Cup, the world’s richest race.