Paul Kealy's play of the day at Sandown
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Preferred as a betting heat is the Betfair Esher Novices' Chase (2.33), with the Nicholls-trained Welcom To Cartries the selection, even though official ratings say he has a bit to find.
Second in the Grade 2 River Don at Doncaster on his third outing over hurdles last season, Welcom To Cartries was sent for a wind operation following a flop at Ayr in the spring, and he was always going to be a better horse over fences than hurdles so it is no surprise he is making the quick transition.
He won his sole point, earning the encouraging comment 'good jump' on a couple of occasions, including at the last, and Nicholls said in his Racing Post Stable Tour that he could see him developing in the Stay Away Fay mould, that horse having won this race for him last year.
He will need to improve because he has Resplendent Grey and the much-touted Handstands to deal with, but I think he will, and I want to take on the latter anyway.
Handstands went off favourite for the Grade 2 Rising Stars at Wincanton on his chase debut last month, but he didn't jump well and looked well held before falling at the third-last, and he has something to prove now, which is why Resplendent Grey is favourite here.
In fairness, he also just about has the best form on his second to Hyland at Cheltenham, and he can jump, but I would be hopeful we'll see a much improved Welcom To Cartries here.
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