IT'S GAME ON FOR NICHOLLS

The 13-times champion trainer insists the 8-1 shot in the ante-post book can throw down a stern challenge for jump racing’s cherished crown.

- MELISSA JONES

PAUL NICHOLLS has robustly defended Bravemansgame’s Cheltenham Gold Cup credentials amid fears he will not relish the track.

Third on his only Cheltenham appearance in the 2021 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle, Bravemansgame has since thrived at flatter racecourses.

Kempton’s 2022 King George VI Chase career best tops the pile, the £370,000 purchase’s second top-level success there.