Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Criterion Stakes (Group 3)

Won well last June on belated debut and took his form to a very smart level with Group 2 win at Newmarket (1m, soft) in September, prompting a supplementary entry for the QEII in which he was well beaten having been kept away from the others for most of the way; a 5lb penalty could leave him vulnerable on reappearance.

Second in Commonwealth Cup at 2024 Royal Ascot (6f, good to firm) before finishing strongly to collar Lazzat in a valuable race over 7.5f in Australia on his final 3yo start; better of his two efforts this season when just under 3l fifth of ten to Docklands in Queen Anne at Royal Ascot (1m, good to firm) 11 days ago; leading form claims back down in grade.

Last season's Ayr Gold Cup winner who has returned in good nick, going down by only a short head in a 6f Group 2 at the Curragh (good) five weeks ago; also had some good 7f form last year.

Gelded before his second in this at Newmarket (good to firm) last year; subsequently had wind surgery and folded quickly in soft-ground Listed event at Newbury in September (final start for Sir Michael Stoute); sold for 120,000gns in October; joined a stable which is very adept with new recruits but, back from nine months off, the betting is perhaps the best guide.

Unexposed 4yo who was impressive when taking his career record to 4-6 in smart 7f conditions event at Thirsk (good) on reappearance in April; subsequently recruited by Wathnan Racing; looks one who can make his presence felt in this higher grade.