Cheltenham preview: International Hurdle (15.00)

Peace And Co stayed on well and was always just doing enough, and to me was value for much more than the winning margin.

He is currently 8/1 with Coral for the 2016 Champion Hurdle, and I fully expect Peace And Co to come through this test and confirm himself a leading contender for that contest.

Don’t forget about the Old Guard

If Peace And Co does fail to live up to expectations then the race-fit Old Guard looks the obvious one to take advantage.

The Paul Nicholls trained gelding has shown improved form to win both his starts this season over course and distance, and was most impressive in the last of those when beating Superb Story by two lengths in the Greatwood Hurdle.

Old Guard tanked along in midfield, and after making stealthy headway to challenge at the last only had to be driven out on the run-in to score with a bit up his sleeve.

It was a most taking effort, and Old Guard is clearly thriving and on an upward curve. However, that was a handicap and this Grade 2 contest represents a big step up in class.

Given connections Old Guard may well prove up to the grade, but to me he doesn’t have the scope or class of Peace And Co and will need that rival to under-perform to land the spoils.

Related

Keep an eye on our Cheltenham coverage for more race previews and tips.

Coral’s top tip: Peace And Co is a most exciting prospect, so rates a solid bet to make a winning return to action and maintain his unbeaten record.