1

Max Dynamite

A grand servant on Flat and over jumps. Twice placed in G1 Melbourne Cup but well beaten in 2016 Gold Cup and by Stradivarius last month. Prefer softer ground. Now eight. A huge task.

2

Order Of St George

Star stayer who won the race in 2016, was narrowly beaten by Big Orange last year and has had the same proven preparation this year. A worthy favourite who will be difficult to beat.

3

Scotland

Lightly raced seven-year-old. Only win was in 2013. Well beaten in 2015 and 2016 Gold Cups, last in Listed race last month. Not good enough.

4

Sheikhzayedroad

Nine-year-old with long, creditable career. Thrived in 2016 when raised in trip and good third in Gold Cup but sixth and less good last year and last in G3 last month. One for optimists.

5

Torcedor

Much improved front runner as five-year-old last year. Well beaten in Gold Cup but good chance on some form and impressive winner of G3 at Ascot over around 3200m last month. Probably prefer softer ground.

6

Vazirabad

Top class French stayer, winner of 15 of 22 races including all the top Group staying races in France and three times winner of G2 Dubai Gold Cup. Probably prefer softer ground. Interesting.

7

Desert Skyline

A strong stayer who won 2017 G2 Doncaster Cup over around 3600m when only three-year-old in field. Beaten by both Torcedor and Stradivarius this season but should improve. Could surprise.

8

Mount Moriah

Four-year-old improved a lot last year but never won above Listed level, well beaten by Order Of St George in 2017 Irish St Leger and doesn't look good enough.

9

Stradivarius

Not raced beyond 3200m but if stays the trip will be real danger to Order Of St George. Huge progress last year, won G1 Goodwood Cup and impressive when won G2 Yorkshire Cup last month. Fast ground will suit.