Shavanksy is on a good mark at present and makes plenty of appeal at 8/1 in the 3.45 at Leicester.
Rod Millman’s gelding ran really well when runner-up at Sandown last time out where he would have won if given a more positive ride.
James Millman was onboard that day and decided to switch to the middle of the track when his horse had every chance if given a few smacks to grab a position on the favoured stands side rail.
He forfeited vital ground by deciding to go around horses and kept on well under a hands and heels ride to be beaten just 1 1/2 lengths by My Lord.
There is little doubt in my mind that he was the best horse in the race and should have won, and although the handicapper has put him up a pound for that effort he remains well treated.
The eight-year-old can often spoil his chance with a slow start, but he looked as if his time was near prior to his effort at Sandown when an eye-catching 5th of 13 to Trade Commissioner at Salisbury.
After dwelling when the gates opened he didn’t get the clearest of passages and stayed on well inside the final furlong to be beaten just over 7 lengths off a mark of 86.
The form has a really solid look as the winner went to land a competitive handicap at here off a mark of 98 and looks a potential Listed/Group horse in the making.
The selection is now 4lb lower than when registering his last victory at Chepstow last July, and that gives him outstanding claims from a handicapping perspective.
Providing he doesn’t give away too much ground at the start this looks a good opportunity for him to get back into the winners’ enclosure if given a more positive ride.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts each-way Shavansky (8/1 generally available – use BOG firms)