Carrig to gain upper hand again over Fever

THERE are much better short-priced bets at Cheltenham this week than taking just over evens about Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle favourite Bambino Fever.

- By The Scout (Melissa Jones)

First run a decade ago, expanding the meeting to 28 races, the Grade Two has regularly drawn a double-figure field, with 22 horses holding a chance this time.

Willie Mullins-saddled pair Limini (2016) and Laurina (2018) got the job done for followers of the market, but there has been 50-1, 16-1 (twice) and 10-1 winners since.

Classy Bambino Fever's jumping will come under greater scrutiny with so many runners and she is unlikely to dictate on her own terms like she did at Fairyhouse in January.

Recently purchased by high-profile Fiat operation Victorious Forever, with assistance from bloodstock agent Jerry McGrath, CARRIGMOORNASPRUCE (1.20) has form against the geldings.

She met Bambino Fever earlier in her career, continuing to improve for Declan Queally's handling and is versatile tactically.