Henderson is happy with Epatante

NICKY HENDERSON reckons Champion Hurdle queen Epatante is back to her best ahead of defending the crown at Cheltenham.

The title holder and fellow mare Honeysuckle are among 14 still declared for the openingday highlight on Tuesday.

Despite a spectacular seasonal reappearance win in the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle, Epatante’s campaign was blown apart when suffering a shock reverse at the hands of Silver Streak in the Christmas Hurdle on Boxing Day.

Henderson admitted his golden girl was not right at Sunbury but believes she’s back in tip-top order at just the right time for a rematch.

The trainer told talkSPORT: “Both Altior and Epatante did their last pieces of work this [Wednesday] morning and it went remarkably well.

“Our horses probably weren’t quite on song at Christmas. It was very disappointing in the Christmas Hurdle because she was so impressive in it last year, as she was in the Fighting Fifth first time out this year.

“But everything seems to be back on song. We were all very, very happy.”

ARGENTINA stand-off Domingo Miotti has become Glasgow coach Danny Wilson’s latest recruit for next season.

The 24-year-old will join the Warriors, subject to getting a visa, from Australians Western Force.

Miotti said: “I’m very excited to join Glasgow. I’ve watched some of Glasgow’s games and they play a fun, attacking style of rugby that I’m excited to be a part of.”

Wilson added: “Domingo is an exciting attacking prospect. He has a strong kicking game and good ball-handling skills.

“He adds further quality to our backline and we look forward to welcoming him in the summer.”

Former Glasgow captain Al Kellock will take over as the club’s managing director.