A small but competitive field lines up for the concluding handicap at Salisbury, with stamina likely to prove the decisive factor over this testing 1m6f on quick ground. The lack of confirmed front-runners could make this a tactical affair, placing extra emphasis on race positioning and timing.

Curran heads the market after returning to winning form at Bath over a similar trip in June. Although unable to build on that success in stronger Class 4 company on his next two starts, today’s drop back into Class 5 is a significant positive. With Oisin Murphy taking the ride and conditions very much in his favour, he sets the standard and looks the one they all have to beat.

Fair Dinkum rates the chief danger. A previous course-and-distance winner, he has shaped consistently this season and wasn’t disgraced when stepping back into Class 4 last time. Returning to this grade and back up to 1m6f should suit, while Taryn Langley’s useful 5lb claim leaves him attractively weighted. If the race develops into a tactical contest, his prominent racing style could prove a major asset.

Veteran Masterdream returns to the Flat after campaigning over hurdles and fences, where he has remained competitive. His stamina is beyond question, but translating that recent jumping form back to the Flat after a lengthy absence from this code presents a different challenge. He looks capable of staying on late without appearing ideally suited by the likely steady early pace.

Blue Siam is still searching for a first Flat victory. She wasn’t disgraced when third at Bath last week over this trip, but her overall profile suggests she needs a sizeable step forward to trouble the principals. She may appreciate the distance but faces a difficult task against more proven handicappers.

With only four runners after the withdrawal of Mountbatten, the pace could be controlled by whichever jockey is prepared to take the initiative. That scenario favours those racing prominently, giving both Curran and Fair Dinkum a tactical advantage.

Verdict: Curran has the strongest recent form, drops back into a more suitable grade and has an ideal jockey booking, making him the deserved favourite. Fair Dinkum looks the biggest threat and appeals as the one most likely to capitalise should the favourite underperform, while Masterdream can battle on for minor honours.

Predicted 1-2-3:

1. Curran
2. Fair Dinkum
3. Masterdream