'He's grand and has done everything I've asked of him' – is Handstands the one to beat in Grade 2 Rising Stars?

The Grade 2 Elite Hurdle (2.55) will see a field of three take each other on after Dan Skelton's Forever William was declared a non-runner on Friday.

Paul Nicholls, who has won this for the past two years, is responsible for last season's winner Rubaud, who made a successful seasonal return at Kempton last month.

The trainer said: "He won his race the other day nicely and it was important to get a run. He loves fast ground and a fast track, but we have to give the other two 6lb."

Brentford Hope enjoyed a strong first campaign with Harry Derham last season, with five wins from nine starts, but his participation in the contest will depend on the conditions.

Derham said: "He's in fantastic form, but if it's remotely quick then he won't run. I'm very keen to run him, he's in great nick, but he obviously won't be at his best on good ground.

"If he takes his chance it's a good starting point for him, and I always look forward to it every time he runs. We wish it was a slower surface, though."

Read more Saturday previews:

'He’s in beautiful form and has a lovely racing weight' - who fancies their chance of being the Badger Beer toast?

'He’s in very good form, has a great record fresh and knows how to win' - analysis and key quotes for the Grand Sefton

Who has unfinished business in the November Handicap as Britain's Flat turf season comes to a close?

'There are a few positives there' – can Honeyball pair Good Look Charm and Pure Theatre outrun their big odds?

'She goes there with a big shout' - analysis and key quotes for Doncaster's Listed race for fillies

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