Nicholls favours Ascot return for Saphir

PAUL NICHOLLS is leaning towards sending Saphir Du Rheu to Ascot on Saturday for his seasonal reappearance, but plans on Thursday remained fluid.

The seven-year-old proved a disappointment over fences last season after starting the campaign perceived by many to be a realistic Cheltenham Gold Cup contender.

Saphir Du Rheu has three entries on Saturday, comprising the Grade 3 Sodexo Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Ascot, and Wetherby's Grade 2 bet365 Hurdle and bet365 Charlie Hall Chase.

Owner Andy Stewart had indicated this week the hurdle option at Wetherby was favoured, but Nicholls said on Thursday: "I'm leaning slightly towards Ascot. I want to keep an eye on the ground, and also the likely runners.

"I'll speak to the owners on Thursday night and make a decision. We might even decide to wait, and not run at all on Saturday. We'll have to see."

Saphir Du Rheu is generally 5-1 favourite for the Sodexo Gold Cup, and 5-1 with many firms for the bet365 Hurdle.