Paul Nicholls wins the first two races at Sandown but inspection called

Paul Nicholls has enjoyed a superb week with trebles at Chepstow on Wednesday and Exeter on Friday. The latter included a 1-2 in the feature Haldon Gold Cup and the champion trainer landed another Grade 2 prize on West Country weekend when Knappers Hill took the Elite Hurdle at Wincanton a day later.

Frodon also landed the Badger Beer Chase as part of a four-timer for the trainer at his local track. Nicholls is operating at a 50 per cent strike-rate since Bravemansgame's win in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby after Halo Des Obeaux and Solo won the first two races at Sandown on Sunday. An inspection has been called after the third race and should that be passed, he has two more chances at the Esher venue. Can he keep the hot run going?

Irish Hill

3.05 Sandown: Guy Fawkes Handicap Hurdle

The winner of a juvenile and a handicap hurdle on his first season with Nicholls, Irish Hill has had wind surgery since last seen finishing second at Warwick in May.

Although a beaten favourite on that occasion, the four-year-old is yet to finish outside of the first three on his six starts in Britain and a bold showing can reasonably be expected as the gelding is reunited with Harry Cobden.

SPOTLIGHT COMMENT: Wind surgery in August; has to be taken seriously for top yard which is going so strongly

Larchmont Lass

4.05 Sandown: Start Your Racing TV Free Trial Now Open National Hunt Flat Race

The well-bred €95,000 purchase Larchmont Lass could cap the week off in style for Nicholls who has already had a bumper winner this week courtesy of Isaac Des Obeaux. The daughter of Walk In The Park has the mares' allowance and she takes on a largely unknown field for her debut.

SPOTLIGHT COMMENT: First foal; dam very useful chaser; takes on males on debut but represents leading trainer

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