Magic Circle cut for the Melbourne Cup after Koukash thong threat

Can the raider land another big pot?

British and Irish trained horses dominate the betting for November’s Melbourne Cup, with Magic Circle into 14/1 following support for the Chester Cup winner.

Owner Dr Marwan Koukash has promised to wear a thong should his charge win the thing, and our traders aren’t taking any chances.

The Ian Williams-trained fancy remains behind Withhold at 12/1, after the Tony Bloom colt landed two huge gambles in the Northumberland Plate and last year’s Cesarewitch at Newmarket.

Godolphin three-year-old Cross Counter has been running well this term and can be backed at 14/1. Hamada and Torcedor follow close behind at 16/1 apiece.

“Magic Circle’s owner, Dr Marwan Koukash, has said he will collect the trophy wearing only a thong should his horse win the Melbourne Cup, but we’re not sure if that threat, or promise, has prompted the support for the Chester Cup winner!” said Coral’s David Stevens.

**Melbourne Cup
12 Withhold, 14 Cross Counter, (from 16) Magic Circle, 16 Hamada, Torcedor, 20 Kings Will Dream, Marmelo, 25 Best Solution, Count Octave, Kew Gardens, Latrobe, Muntahaa, Stratum, Tosen Basil, Weekender, 33 Bar

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing