2m4½f | Good ground | 4 runners

Small field, but a proper tactical Grade 2, where track suitability and pace control matter more than brute force. Kempton’s flat, right-handed layout puts the emphasis on rhythm and jumping at speed, and with only four runners there’s nowhere to hide.

Kalif Du Berlais (FR) is the obvious focal point. Still lightly raced over fences, he has a strong Kempton record, a slick jumping style, and arrives from a yard that targets this race well. His Grade 1 novice win last spring marks him down as the class angle, and this looks a sensible re-entry point after a below-par run in a hot handicap. If he settles and controls the race, he’s the one they’ll all have to pass.

Edwardstone brings star quality and bags of experience, but at twelve years of age this trip looks a stretch against younger, fresher legs. He ran with credit behind Djelo last time and won’t lack fitness, but this is more about whether the old spark is still there, rather than class, which he has in abundance.

Boombawn (IRE) is solid and reliable, particularly at Kempton, where his record reads well. He’s not flashy, but he’s tough, jumps soundly, and keeps finding his level in this grade. Likely to be ridden prominently and could easily pick up the pieces if others underperform.

Master Chewy (IRE) has ability but comes here with questions after a heavy defeat over Christmas. He’s capable on his day, yet this setup doesn’t scream ideal, and he may need the race to fall apart late.

Verdict:
With conditions in his favour and scope still on his side, Kalif Du Berlais looks the one most likely to stamp his authority. Edwardstone commands respect on class alone, while Boombawn is the solid alternative if it turns tactical.