Jim Crowley: Anmaat absence a blow but Coral-Eclipse looks too close to call

Jockey and Coral ambassador Jim Crowley discusses the chances of his four rides at Sandown on Saturday and previews the Coral-Eclipse.

Sandown 3.40 – Coral-Eclipse

It was a blow to get the news that Anmaat would miss the Coral-Eclipse, a foot abscess is not a major setback, but it came at just the wrong time, and meant missing the race was inevitable. We believe he would have gone there with a leading chance, even in such classy company, but these things happen unfortunately, it’s just a shame for Sheikha Hissa and Owen [Burrows], as having these runners in the big races is what we all aim for.

Looking at the race from the sidelines now, I honestly couldn’t split Paddington and Emily Upjohn. We know the filly will definitely get the trip, and while Paddington is bred to stay, he does have to prove it, although connections seem very confident he will. I’d say Ryan [Moore] has the more straightforward ride, as she can pull early at times, but a lot will depend on the pace of the race.

If West Wind Blows or Dubai Honour make it a slowly run race, I think Paddington will have the turn of foot that could be decisive, but if William [Buick] makes it more of a stamina test, Emily Upjohn could take some pegging back. It could be tactical, but hopefully they can serve up a thriller.

Sandown 2.25 – Revich

My day begins on Revich in the big mile handicap. We won at Chester in May, since when he’s run OK in big races at Epsom and Ascot. He’s a horse who likes a bit of cover, we’re drawn well in stall 3 here, which should help, and I can see him running well at a big price at a track that should suit.

Sandown 3.00 – Cell Sa Beela