Sweet on De Bromhead star Honeysuckle for repeat win in Champion Hurdle

With all the complaints about how the Mares’ Hurdle dilutes the 2m and 3m hurdle divisions, it is worth noting that three of the last six Champion Hurdles have been won by mares, including in spectacular style last season by Honeysuckle.

She is set to be campaigned to defend her Cheltenham crown, with connections turning down the temptation to send the unbeaten ex-point-to-pointer chasing.

I doubt that option was given much thought, but her presence is very much needed in a division that lacks depth without her.