Star novice Samcro to take on Mullins squad in Champion Hurdle on Friday

Samcro, the horse tipped by many for superstar status, steps out of novice company for the first time on Friday when he tackles the Grade 1 Betdaq 2% Commission Punchestown Champion Hurdle.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old, unbeaten in seven starts including the Grade 1 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham last month, is one of eight declared for the 2m feature.

Elliott had the option of running Samcro in the 2m4f Profile Systems Champion Novice Hurdle on the same card, but has decided to take on five Willie Mullins-trained opponents, including Champion Hurdle runner-up Melon, in a more valuable race.

Explaining the decision, Elliott said: "He's in good form so we'll give it a go. It's a good race but the prize-money would be a help so we'll see what happens."

Supasundae, runner-up in Grade 1s at the Cheltenham Festival and Aintree, drops back to two miles for the first time since winning the Irish Champion Hurdle.

Samcro, who travelled supremely well during the Ballymore prior to coming home two and three-quarter lengths clear of Black Op, is arguably the most exciting horse in training at present, and the sky appears the limit for him.

The other four Mullins declarations comprise Bleu Berry, Coquin Mans, Min and Wicklow Brave. Elliott also runs The Game Changer.

Samcro was on Wednesday installed as the 5-6 favourite by Paddy Power with Melon at 5-2 and Supasundae 15-2.

Mullins has declared six for the novice hurdle including Getabird, a beaten favourite on Tuesday, while Elliott could have five runners, although Delta Work (second) and Blow By Blow (seventh) must be doubtful after contesting Wednesday's Irish Daily Mirror Novice Hurdle over 3m.

Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com