The choicely-bred MUDBIR shaped with definite promise amidst inexperience when runner-up on debut in a Newmarket novice back in the autumn. Boasting all the hallmarks of one sure to do better as a 3-y-o, he shades the vote ahead of Explode, who produced a solid debut display himself when third from a wide draw at Kempton 45 days ago. Deauville Blue on debut for a new yard and newcomers Antipodes and Open Road also command a second look.