One key runner from each of the four races at Cheltenham on ITV4 this Friday

Fanion D'Estruval
1.50 Cheltenham
Mucking Brilliant Paddy Power Handicap Chase, 2m

The action kicks off with a competitive handicap chase and it could unearth a Queen Mother Champion Chase dark horse in Fanion D'Estruval. The five-year-old was mooted as an Arkle hope when demolishing the field in a strong novice handicap chase at Newbury a year ago, but was last seen finishing fifth in a Grade 2 novice chase at Kempton during the Christmas period. This test has more emphasis on stamina and should suit the gelding, who remains very unexposed and could be a class prospect.

Protektorat
2.25 Cheltenham
SSS Super Alloys Supports Racing Welfare Novices' Chase, 2m4f

This race has a history of featuring top-class performers who go on to Grade 1 glory and Protektorat could be the next star from this contest's production line. The five-year-old earned plenty of plaudits with a flamboyant and foot-perfect display of jumping on his debut over fences at Carlisle last month and if he can replicate that performance he could be set for loftier targets in the near future.

Protektorat: was flawless over fences at Carlisle last monthCredit: John Grossick Racing

Potters Corner
3.00 Cheltenham
Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase, 3m6f

With all eyes on the rematch between Easysland and Tiger Roll, Welsh Grand National hero Potters Corner has gone under the radar for his cross-country debut. He provided trainer Christian Williams and young jockey Jack Tudor with their biggest career victories in the Chepstow marathon and while the defence of his crown will be his ultimate early-season aim, it will be interesting to see how he takes to this discipline and if he can put it up to the market leaders.

Does He Know
3.35 Cheltenham
Ballymore Novices' Hurdle (Grade 2), 2m5f

It has been an autumn to remember for Kim Bailey and David Bass and the duo have a golden chance to land another big-race win with Does He Know, six days after they teamed up to land the Badger Beers Silver Trophy with El Presente. Does He Know had two spins over hurdles last season, finishing second on each occasion, but looks an entirely different animal this campaign, winning at Ludlow and then over course and distance at the Showcase meeting last month. If he builds on the latter effort he should go close to a Grade 2 victory.

Ultimate Daily – our daily newsletters from Racing Post's experts, exclusive to the inbox of Ultimate Members' Club subscribers. To receive the newsletter subscribe at racingpost.com/members-club