Prognosis

Prognosis (Image: Japan Racing Association)

Prognosis faces Plate test

Pride Of Jenni could have an early challenger for Cox Plate favouritism, with impressive Japanese galloper Prognosis set to test his credentials in Sunday's Group 2 Sapporo Kinen (2000m) in Japan.

In what could also be a significant weekend coming up for both the October 26 Cox Plate and the November 5 Melbourne Cup in Europe, it is anticipated Prognosis could be confirmed for the Cox Plate if he performs as expected on Sunday.

Currently, Pride Of Jenni holds sway in betting at $4.40 for The Valley's $5 million feature, ahead of Prognosis ($6.50).

It is understood that Damian Lane has been sounded out for the potential Cox Plate ride on Prognosis for trainer Mitsumasa Nakauchida.

On Saturday at Newbury in the UK, the five-horse G3 Geoffrey Freer Stakes (2700m) will be run, while at The Curragh on the same day, the G3 Irish St Leger Trial (2800m) is to be contested, with four of the six runners in the latter race possible travelers to Melbourne.

It is understood Willie Mullins will again bring Absurde if he can find his form, while Joseph O'Brien has indicated the Melbourne Cup is a chance for A Piece Of Heaven.

His father Aidan has Caulfield Cup entrant Grosvenor Square engaged and Jessica Harrington's Kinesiology is also considered a chance to be nominated for Flemington, pending the outcome.

On Sunday in France, the G2 Prix Kergorlay (3000m) will be run at Deauville, where German horse Alessio can prove his worth for a trip to Melbourne.