A competitive six-runner handicap closes the Leicester card, with several arriving in solid form and tactics likely to play a major role in the outcome. The small field suggests the early pace may not be overly strong, placing added emphasis on positioning and racecraft.

Kameel sets the standard on recent form. Jessica Macey’s four-year-old has been knocking on the door in similar company, including a close second at Redcar before two respectable efforts at this venue. He remains well suited by 1m2f on quick ground and, from a handy draw, looks likely to secure an ideal stalking position behind the pace. His consistency makes him the one they all have to beat.

The chief danger may be Arlene Phillips, who returned from an eight-month absence with an encouraging third at Epsom. A previous course winner, he is likely to adopt his customary front-running tactics and could prove difficult to reel in if allowed an uncontested lead. The drop back from 1m4f to 1m2f should hold no fears, particularly around Leicester’s galloping track.

Hachiman is an intriguing contender after producing one of his better efforts when third over this course and distance earlier in the month. That performance hinted the step up to 1m2f suits, and with cheekpieces retained he has the potential to build on that effort from an attractive handicap mark.

Typeface has the ability to feature if seeing out the trip more effectively than on previous attempts. First-time cheekpieces may sharpen his concentration, but most of his strongest performances have come over shorter and stamina remains a slight concern.

Course winner Clipsham Noble is another with claims, though his hold-up style may leave him vulnerable in a race lacking obvious pace. He is often at his best when the leaders go hard, a scenario that appears less likely here.

The least exposed runner is Turton, who makes his stable debut after changing yards. As the only three-year-old in the field he receives a handy weight-for-age allowance and has scope for improvement, but he needs to show significantly more than he has in four starts to date.

Verdict

This looks set to revolve around whether Arlene Phillips can dictate matters from the front or whether Kameel’s proven consistency can tell in the closing stages. The latter’s dependable profile, suitability to conditions and recent form earn him the vote to gain a deserved success, while Hachiman appeals as the one most likely to outrun market expectations.

Prediction

1. Kameel
2. Arlene Phillips
3. Hachiman
4. Typeface