A small but intriguing five-runner juvenile contest over 7f, with Avec Toi setting the standard but facing an interesting unbeaten challenger in Jassas.
Avec Toi has done everything asked of him so far. He won his Saint-Cloud debut by four lengths before making all to land a Listed race over this trip at Deauville. That course-and-distance experience is valuable, and his Racing Post Rating of 115 gives him the strongest piece of form in the field. The tactical picture could also favour him: if allowed to dictate again, he may prove difficult to pass.
Jassas is the fascinating one. Charlie Appleby's Dubawi colt was well supported when winning his 7f Doncaster novice on debut and the runner-up subsequently won, giving the form some substance. He was supplemented for this race and holds Group 1 entries, suggesting connections regard him highly. He has plenty to find on bare ratings, but after only one start his ceiling remains unknown.
Silver Dominion brings more established Pattern-race form. He finished fourth in a Newmarket Group 2 before running second in Listed company at Ascot. His 101 official rating and 112 RPR put him firmly in the argument, although he has had three opportunities compared with the less exposed principals and may not possess quite their potential.
Cut A Dash is the possible value angle. His fourth in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot is strong form and produced an RPR of 113. He disappointed subsequently in the Richmond Stakes, but that can be forgiven to some extent. The move to 7f is interesting on pedigree, and a return to his Ascot level would make him considerably more dangerous than his recent form figure suggests.
Zakkan has been consistent without winning, finishing 3-2-3 from three starts. He was beaten less than a length over this course and distance only seven days ago, but this represents a significant rise in grade and he needs improvement.
Verdict
The race could revolve around Avec Toi, who has already demonstrated that he can control a 7f race from the front. He has the best form, is unbeaten and knows Deauville, making him the one they all have to beat.
The danger is Jassas. His current rating doesn't tell us much after only one run, and the decision to supplement him for a Group 3 is noteworthy. If he takes the expected step forward, he could give the favourite a serious examination.
At bigger odds, Cut A Dash is more interesting than his Richmond run suggests. His Coventry fourth gives him a legitimate form case if the extra furlong sparks a revival.
Selection: AVEC TOI
Main danger: JASSAS
Value/outsider: CUT A DASH
Predicted order: Avec Toi – Jassas – Cut A Dash – Silver Dominion – Zakkan.
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