The Meydan Punt: Nick Driver with his best bets on Thursday

BANKER

Faatinah(2.30 Meydan)

It’s hard to believe that a mere 3lb rise will be able to stop Faatinah following his excellent two-and-a-half-length success over course and distance three weeks ago. He’s only 1lb higher than his win at Meydan last year and with the target once again being the Al Quoz stakes, he should be winning this if connections are hoping to be in with a chance on World Cup night. Hit The Bid will be the main danger but I think the Australian raider is just going to be too quick for them. Although it might not be as easy as last time, he should have enough in the tank to win.

GOOD THING

Dubhe (5.25 Meydan)

I’m quite surprised to see James Doyle on Spotify here and I think Brett Doyle could have picked up a belter of a ride on Dubhe. The selection looked imperious when routing a good field, including listed winner Communique, at Sandown. Dubhe will only improve for the step up to 1m4f courtesy of his impeccable breeding, being a son of Galileo out of Irish Oaks winner Great Heavens. The other two Godolphin horses have to give him plenty of weight which makes him of real interest, and despite not being seen since April last year, I'd expect Charlie Appleby to have him in top form.

EYECATCHER

Mythical Magic (4.50 Meydan)

The big turf races seem to be a puzzle where all the vital pieces are Godolphin blue, but Mythical Magic could be the solution to one of those puzzles at a reasonable price. He’s landed a perfect draw on the inside in stall four with most of the principles drawn much wider and his two solid runs in France at the back-end of last year should put him spot on for this. He's got the scope to improve and was well thought of as a two-year-old, finishing third in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes and also running respectably in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagadere.

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