Sound fourth first-up in Open grade and already proven around 1450m. The apprentice claim helps, and he has genuine place claims.

Strong track-and-distance record, but his last two Vaal runs were plain. Others bring sharper recent form.

Resumes after placing in Benchmark 88 company and has a strong place record. First-up, he still has to prove sharp enough to win.

Freshened since two heavy defeats. Weight relief helps, but he must lift sharply on recent figures.

Resumes after a dominant debut win at Vaal as odds-on favourite. Untested at 1450m, but his upside makes him a strong chance.

Last-start Vaal winner by three lengths and had been runner-up before that. Proven at this track and looks a genuine winning threat.

Back from a spell after a heavy last-start defeat. Earlier placing offers a small pointer, but he has to find plenty.

Placed first-up at this track after a maiden win the run before. Consistent type with realistic place claims.

Resumes after a well-backed second and is proven around 1450m. Track record is the query, but he has place appeal.

Freshened since a solid third at this track and gets first-time blinkers. The 1450m is the query, but he looks the one to beat.