The pace should be honest rather than frenetic, with Dream Diamond and Calvert likely to go forward. That should set things up for a horse sitting just off the speed rather than one coming from miles back. Huntingdon over 2m tends to reward those in the right position turning in.

Wandering Ego sets the standard. He’s got the strongest form in the book, arrives in good nick, and consistently finishes his races well. The slight concern is his run style—he can be ridden patiently, and in a 12-runner novice that always carries risk. If he gets a clear passage, he’s the most likely winner.

Mariole is the interesting one. A Henderson-trained 4yo with very little mileage, he’s exactly the type that can take a big step forward in a race like this. He doesn’t need to improve much to be a major player, and it would be no surprise if he’s the one travelling best turning for home.

Dream Diamond could give them something to aim at from the front, but his finishing efforts have been mixed and he looks vulnerable late on if pressured.

Of the rest, Secret Sniper is probably the one to pick up pieces if things fall right, but he needs improvement to win.

This should come down to proven form versus potential. If everything goes smoothly, Wandering Ego is the solid answer. But Mariole is the one with the upside and the biggest threat.

Verdict: Wandering Ego to win, with Mariole the main danger.