Commentator Mark Johnson and Phil Kirby with their views on the weekend action

Are you with or against Santini in the Cotswold?

Pietro Innocenzi, tipster Against, given the poor recent record of favourites in the race and the fact he was also all out to get the better of a 144-rated rival on his reappearance. He’s too short. Bristol De Mai remains an enigma, although his last three wins have come in November, so I can see myself backing Top Ville Ben, who was entered in the Gold Cup after toying with his rivals under a big weight in the Rowland Meyrick.

Top Ville Ben: won the Rowland Meyrick last timeCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Mark Johnson, commentator I’m with him. I don’t think this is a classic renewal of the race and, given the form of Nicky Henderson’s horses, and the fact he doesn’t do a great deal when he hits the front, he’s likely to be far better than he showed first time out at Sandown.

Phil Kirby, trainer I would expect he will be a good bit sharper for his first run back but as I run Top Ville Ben in the race I'm against him! I'm going there hoping we can put up a good show and to find out if he could be a Gold Cup horse going forward.