Prince Of Arran seeking Melbourne Cup return in Herbert Power

Last year's Melbourne Cup third Prince Of Arran aims to secure a place in next month's Flemington showpiece with victory in the Ladbrokes Herbert Power Stakes, part of Saturday's scintillating card on Caulfield Guineas Day.

Despite his gallant display 12 months ago, the Charlie Fellowes-trained Prince Of Arran sits outside the field for this year's Melbourne Cup, a situation he can rectify by winning the Herbert Power and receiving a much-needed weight penalty from the handicapper.

Third in the September Stakes at Kempton on his last start, Prince Of Arran is no stranger to this scenario as he clinched his spot last year with a last-minute win in the Lexus Stakes.

He is joined in the Group 2 handicap over 1m4f by fellow topweight Raheen House, trained by William Haggas.

Fellowes said: "He arrived in Australia a fit horse and we're very happy with him. There's nothing in the field that scares me. Raheen House finished one place behind us in the Ebor and they have pretty decent chances."

The Willie Mullins-trained True Self had been declared for the race but has been taken out with connections keen to give her another week before a potential crack at the Caulfield Cup.

West Sussex-based trainer David Menuisier could saddle one of the main threats to three-time Group 1 winner Avilius in the Ladbrokes Stakes, one of four Group 1s at Caulfield, in the shape of Danceteria, the mount of Jamie Spencer.

Dancetaria will have to pass an examination by Racing Victoria vets on raceday morning after mucus was found in a scope after trackwork on Friday.

Menuisier, also set to run Toorak Handicap first reserve Chief Ironside in the 7f Listed race if he does not get in the Group 1 later on the card, said: "I think Danceteria will definitely come on for the race but he is in a good place. He has had a very good preparation over the last three or four weeks and I couldn't be more pleased with him. I'm looking forward to seeing him on Saturday, all being well, and seeing what he can do."

As well as the James Cummings-trained Avilius, Godolphin are represented by Dream Castle, who will bid to give Saeed bin Suroor and Pat Cosgrave another victory after they teamed up with Benbatl last year.

"Dream Castle did all his serious work in Newmarket before heading out to Australia and took the journey down under very well," said Bin Suroor.

"This looks a tough race but he is a class horse and we are hoping that we can win it again."

In the Caulfield Guineas, Alligator Blood, who is unbeaten in five starts, renews rivalry with Dalasan after a three-quarters of a length success in last month's Prelude.

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