Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Sprint Handicap

Well beaten at Musselburgh last time and ranked 13th on our figures, he drops to 6f today wearing a hood for the first time; the trip change is an interesting switch for a horse effective at 7-8f, though more is required to reverse recent form.

Beaten only two lengths off a mark 1lb higher than today's at Thirsk last time, showing a return to form that makes him a contender at 5-6f on a sound surface; the trainer's recent run has been lean and he is yet to score in recent starts.

Top of our ratings for this 15-runner sprint, he ran a determined race at Ascot last time — beaten only a neck off a 5lb lower mark — and returns from 50 days away with a notable jockey upgrade; a progressive profile suggests he can take a forward step.

Three consecutive unplaced outings most recently, including trailing the field at Thirsk on the latest, and off a two-month break; the mark has been dropping but much more is needed, even on ground that suits at 5-6f.

Won a novice last time by over two lengths and has more to offer on his first handicap start; he acts on heavy and good ground over 6f and is a genuine danger, though the 11-week absence is worth noting.