Keith Melrose unearths what looks like an index gem over hurdles at Warwick

Kepagge
3.35 Warwick
Buy at 12 on the index

As the least exposed runner in the race, whose only defeat came on his seasonal reappearance, Kepagge might have been expected to have been even closer to the most expensive buy on the index for the Pertemps Qualifier that rounds off Warwick's card.

The suspicion is that his defeat having come on his latest start is tempering enthusiasm. But, as stated, it was his first run since last season, came in a Cheltenham handicap and he shaped very much as in need of a greater test.

Warwick does not have Cheltenham's undulations, which could matter as Kepagge lost his place down the hill last time. It also rewards being near the speed in testing ground, which in general is where Kepagge has tended to race in his short career.

Stamina will not be an issue. Kepagge's two best half-siblings, Catching On and Streets Of Promise, were both noted stayers – either would have stayed 4m.

He is already twice a winner on heavy ground and therefore ticks a lot more boxes for this test than might be expected from his lightly-raced profile. He is not only a runner here, but could be one to watch for the series final at Cheltenham.

3.35 Warwick
Sporting (50-30-20-10): 14-17 Come On Teddy, 9-12 Imperial Alcazar, Kepagge, Flemcara, Potters Corner, 8-11 Espion, 7-9 Tobefair, Mr Harp, 6-8 Ardlethen, 5-7 The Macon Lugnatic, Saint Dalina, 3-5 Geordie Des Champs, The Captains Inn

Match bet: Come On Teddy/Flemcara 1.75-3.25

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