Big chance for World rule

A total of 16 possible rivals stand between Big Buck‘s and a record fourth successive victory in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The legendary stayer has made the three-mile contest his own in recent seasons and will be seeking a 16th straight victory over hurdles as he lines up on the third day of the Festival.

Trainer Paul Nicholls also has Five Dream and King Of The Night in the line-up, but the main rival to Big Buck‘s appears to be the Nicky Henderson-trained Oscar Whisky.

He was placed in the Champion Hurdle last year and has made a seamless switch to longer trips this term, although this will be his first try at three miles.

David Pipe’s Dynaste has chased home Big Buck‘s on his last two starts and he tries his luck once again.

Willie Mullins has a strong team headed by Zaidpour, who is unbeaten in four starts this term, along with Mikael d’Haguenet, Mourad, So Young, Thousand Stars and Quevega, although the latter two appear to have other more likely options.

Voler La Vedette could represent Colm Murphy, while Gordon Elliott’s Carlito Brigante is another entry from Ireland.

Alan King has Smad Place still in the possibles while Cross Kennon, Featherbed Lane and Saphir River complete the list.