Bullish Colin Tizzard hopeful Jpr One can fulfil long-term Betfair Hurdle plan

Colin Tizzard lacks a stable flagbearer of the calibre of former greats Cue Card, Native River or Thistlecrack but has high hopes for young talent Jpr One as he gets ready for Saturday's test in the Betfair Hurdle (3.35) at Newbury.

The richest handicap hurdle in Britain has been the big target for the John Romans-owned five-year-old since his narrow second at Cheltenham in mid-December. He was an easy winner at short odds on his only start since at Taunton and that third run over hurdles allowed him to qualify for the £155,000 contest.

He is one of the leading contenders in a race dominated by novices, with his price continuing to shrink since the entry stage. The 12-1 has long disappeared and he is now a general 5-1 chance (from 8-1 earlier in the week).