Barizan can shed that 'nearly' tag

Trainer Evan Williams hopes Barizan will finally get off the mark in top company after confirming he will he line up for Saturday's Grade 1 Champion Four-Year-Old Hurdle at Punchestown.

After finishing second behind Soldatino in the Triumph Hurdle, Barizan was then beaten in the Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices' Hurdle at Aintree.

Williams said: "We were mugged at Aintree and he's been very unlucky to finish second in a Grade Two and second in two Grade Ones. I'm frustrated but he's going to Punchestown, where hopefully he'll have every chance again."

Charles Egerton will decide later today whether Westlin Winds will be given the green light to restore his lofty reputation in the same race, after he finished down the field in the Triumph Hurdle.

He said: "He wasn't right after Cheltenham. He's got an excuse."

Meanwhile, Williams has ruled Grand National third State Of Play out of Saturday's Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. He said: "He'll have a long break and don't be surprised if we head straight to Aintree without a prep run with him next year. He goes much better as a fresh horse."

Tomorrow's all-weather card at Kempton could be a milestone for rising star Jack Mitchell. The son of former Epsom trainer Philip Mitchell is on the verge of riding his 100th domestic winner and is booked for two rides.