Last-minute decision to run Cilaos Emery in the Champion Hurdle tells the story

Trying to find a horse in the current ante-post market worthy of winning a standard Champion Hurdle is tough, very tough. In fact it's hard to imagine there has been a weaker line-up for the Champion Hurdle in history.

Market leader Epatante at least boasts a progressive profile, represents top connections and was mightily impressive when winning the Christmas Hurdle – a fair trial for this race – when last seen on Boxing Day.

Nevertheless, the fact that Epatante, who was beaten into ninth in an average running of the Grade 2 Mares' Hurdle at this meeting last year, is clear favourite shows just how weak this year's Champion is, and although neither will go for the race, both Benie Des Dieux and Envoi Allen would probably hold a better chance should they re-route.