Leading National hope could transform fortunes in 'hugely frustrating' season

The early chapters of Ben Pauling's training career have made for pretty smooth reading.

Winners and prize-money have increased every season since he vacated his position as Nicky Henderson's second in command in 2013. Precious top-class talent, which has proved elusive for so many before him, has also been unearthed along the way.

But for one reason or another, this campaign has so far bucked the trend. Perhaps for the first time since becoming the conductor of his own orchestra Pauling's string have failed to hit the high notes on a consistent basis.