Nicky Henderson: “It is highly unlikely Fusil Raffles will make Cheltenham”

SADLY we have had to make a decision where Fusil Raffles is concerned and I’m afraid it is bad news and highly unlikely that he will make Cheltenham and therefore not get the opportunity to take his chance in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

Our team of vets have assessed the situation and we all agree that he will need at least 10 days box rest which gives us no time to get him right in two weeks. The important thing is that he is not lame but he hit his off hind shin bone and a flap of skin has to be stitched back and it’s vital that the stitches hold it together otherwise we could even be forced to miss Aintree.

It is terribly frustrating and unfortunate as I thought he was extremely impressive on Saturday but he’s on pain killers and anti-inflammatories to keep him comfortable so I hope to have him back in time to run in the same race that We Have A Dream won at Aintree last year.

Ironically, the acts of God have done it to us two years running as We Have A Dream was also forced to miss the Festival. Simon and Isaac still have Adjali for the Triumph, who I have to say is in excellent form.

Tomorrow will be a big work day for Seven Barrows at Kempton and the following will be galloping:

Adjali Apple’s Shakira Countister Champ Daphne Du Clos River Wylde Theinval Altior Might Bite Top Notch Ok Corral Call Me Lord