Min and Identity Thief clash in Racing Post Novice Chase

In the race in which Douvan confirmed himself a top-notch recruit to chasing for Willie Mullins and Rich Ricci 12 months ago, the same connections will be hoping Min can follow a similar path to stardom in the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Monday.

Racing Post Novice Chase card

The Henry de Bromhead-trained and Gigginstown-owned Identity Thief stands in their way, along with five lesser lights.

Classy six-year-old Identity Thief has won his two chase starts at Punchestown in a manner similar to morning exercise, while Min created a big impression on his chasing debut at Navan last month.

The Alan Fleming-trained Tully East is possibly the pick among their rivals having won his only start over fences at Thurles.

Joseph O’Brien has given the green light for Triumph Hurdle joint-favourite Landofhopeandglory to run in the Grade 2 Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle earlier on the card. The former high-class Flat performer has won his three starts over hurdles and scored at Grade 3 level at Fairyhouse this month.

Bapaume finished just a length behind Landofhopeandglory on his Irish debut for Willie Mullins in that Fairyhouse race and reopposes.

On Friday the ground at Leopardstown was yielding but heavy rain is expected throughout the weekend.

Limerick also race on Monday and the going is soft to heavy, while it is yielding to soft at Down Royal.

The Ted Walsh-trained Foxrock, who was placed in the Lexus Chase last season, will be the star of the show at Down Royal as he runs in the hunter chase.