No Laurina as Wholestone bids to defend crown in Relkeel Hurdle

The wait to see leading Unibet Champion Hurdle contender Laurina in action this season goes on after the star mare was missing from the field of six declared for Tuesday's Dornan Engineering Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Trainer Willie Mullins, who has also opted against running Benie Des Dieux, has suggested Laurina is likely to make her first start since April at Sandown on Saturday.

In her absence, last season's winner Wholestone takes top billing in the Grade 2 contest as he aims to defend his crown against Old Guard, Clyne, Thomas Campbell, Midnight Shadow and Cyrus Darius.

A fascinating race is in store for the card's other Grade 2, the Betbright Dipper Novices' Chase, with Defi Du Seuil and Black Op reopposing after finishing first and third at Exeter this month.

The fantastic field of five is completed by On The Blind Side, Lostintranslation and Crucial Role, who won by nine lengths on his second start for Dan Skelton at Uttoxeter this month.

The trainer said: "He's in good form and I was impressed with his victory at Uttoxeter in what looked a very deep beginners' chase. He will stay further and likes soft ground."

The ground at Cheltenham was described as good to soft, good in places on Monday morning with a dry and mild outlook.

On a day with eight meetings in Britain and Ireland, the stars will be out in force at Tramore, where the Savills Chase features the likes of Al Boum Photo, Invitation Only, Total Recall, Valseur Lido, Sub Lieutenant and Alpha Des Obeaux.

Read exclusive previews of the New Year's Day action from 6pm tonight on racingpost.com