Jim Crowley: “It’s close to call but I’d just favour Ghaiyyath”

York 13.45 – Mubaalegh

I start the Ebor meeting on Mubaalegh for the boss and Marcus Tregoning. He’s had just the one start since switching from John Hammond’s in France, and I thought he ran well at Ascot that day, he showed plenty of speed and just got a bit tired late on. He’s been dropped 3 pounds for that run, which will help, as would better ground, and he had some smart Group form in France, so I think he’s got a chance here, it would certainly be no surprise to see him outrun his odds.

York 15.15 – Juddmonte International

I don’t have a ride in the day’s feature, but it’s a great race and one I’ll be watching with interest. Kameko was unlucky at Goodwood last time no doubt, although whether he’d have beaten Mohaather, obviously I don’t think so! This step up in trip is interesting for him, but he faces three top class older rivals. Magical is a brilliantly tough mare who has done nothing wrong again this season, while the race could be run to suit Lord North, but if I could choose one to ride it would be Ghaiyyath.

He’s looked superb in winning his three starts so far this year, Coral-Eclipse winners often do well in this race, and his defeat of Enable at Sandown looks even better now, and York is a decent track for front runners, although if Rose Of Kildare was to take him on early that could make life difficult for William [Buick]. It’s a really close race to call, but I would narrowly favour the Godolphin runner, but that said, you wouldn’t be surprised to see any of the big four come out on top.

York 16.50 – Mutazawwed