Jim Crowley: He could run a big race at a decent price

Jockey and Coral ambassador Jim Crowley examines the chances of his five rides at Newbury on Saturday.

1.30 Newbury – Israr

He was very progressive last season. The ground was far too heavy for him on his final outing on the campaign in the November Handicap at Doncaster. He is in good order at home, so I am hoping he gets off to a good start to his season. Whatever he does here, he will come on for it.

This has been a lucky race for me. I have won it three times already, with success coming on Cubanita (2014), Muntahaa (2017) and Al Aasy (2021). It would be great to win it for a fourth occasion.

Hurricane Lane is obviously so far ahead of the rest of the field on ratings, but he has been disappointing on his last two starts. Should he produce his best, he will be difficult to beat.

2.05 Newbury – Embrace

I rode this filly first time out and I really liked her. She was a little green on that occasion, but I could tell she has ability. She won on her second start at Wolverhampton where she was super impressive, but I could not ride her that day. On pedigree, she should not mind cut in the ground, but until they try it, you never know. She may well be a surprise package. I am looking forward to riding her.

3.15 Newbury – Revich

He is a horse I’ve ridden a few times. I expect him to be fit as he has already had a run this season, finishing ninth of 20 runners in the Lincoln.