A competitive Class 6 sprint rounds off the Salisbury card, with recent course and distance form, race fitness and early speed all likely to prove decisive over the minimum trip on quick ground.

The spotlight falls on Dottie Diamond, who arrives seeking a hat-trick after back-to-back victories at Southwell and Leicester. She has returned from a lengthy absence as an improved filly, showing plenty of pace and determination, and although she carries a 5lb penalty for last week’s success, there is every chance she still has further progress to come. She sets the standard and is a worthy favourite.

The chief danger could be Dreambird Dolly, who chased Dottie Diamond home at Leicester just seven days ago. Beaten just over a length on that occasion, she now enjoys a valuable 5lb swing at the weights, which brings the pair much closer together on the figures. With blinkers continuing to have a positive effect and Rossa Ryan taking the ride, she looks capable of reversing the placings if the race unfolds in her favour.

Little Miss Magic is another arriving in good heart after winning at Lingfield before finishing a narrow second at Bath. She has rediscovered her best form and should once again be finishing strongly if the expected strong early pace materialises.

One of the more intriguing runners is Follow My Heart. Still a maiden after seven starts, she remains one of the least exposed horses in the field and has shown improved consistency since dropping into Class 6 company. The booking of Oisin Murphy catches the eye, and with a handy weight allowance as a three-year-old, she has the profile of a horse capable of taking another step forward.

Veterans Cabeza De Llave and Roman Spring have the ability to get involved but both have become difficult to win with, while Reporter, Mademoiselle Belle and Battle Point all need significant improvement on recent form to trouble the principals.

With several habitual front-runners lining up, the race looks set to be run at a genuine gallop. That should suit those able to settle just behind the pace before delivering a late challenge in the closing furlong.

Prediction

1. Dottie Diamond
2. Dreambird Dolly
3. Little Miss Magic
4. Follow My Heart

Best Bet: Dottie Diamond
Best Value: Dreambird Dolly
Dark Horse: Follow My Heart