Jigsaw (Image: Racing Photos)
The opening race at The Valley on Saturday will play an important part in piecing together Jigsaw's spring progression.
The promising sprinter will look to add a third win as a two-year-old ahead of a three-year-old campaign which is unlikely to include a Caulfield Guineas.
"Two-year-olds improve and change as they go into their three-year-old year and it's just a bit of a checklist for me to see if he's heading in the right direction," trainer Cindy Alderson said on Thursday.
"It looks to me that there's a bit more furnishing to come and it might be in the autumn when he's really at his peak.
"Certainly, he's strong enough and forward enough to compete this spring as well."
Jigsaw opened a $1.85 favourite with Sportsbet to win the two-year-old handicap for colts and geldings on Saturday, despite carrying at least 3.5kg more than any of his rivals.
"Obviously a little bit more weight to carry and a track that he's never seen before and a shorter distance, they're going to be a few of the little factors that might make it a little bit trickier for him, but he's got a nice draw and I think he should handle the track," Alderson said.
Jigsaw drew barrier four and will likely take up his usual forward position in the run, not that sitting just off speed is of great concern for Alderson.
"He'll probably be on the speed but, if something wants to push him and lead, then I'm happy for him to take a sit as well," she said.
If all goes to plan, Jigsaw will likely head back to Group company for his maiden three-year-old start, in either the Vain Stakes on August 14 or McNeil Stakes on August 28.