ITV Racing Tips: Saturday Each-Way Double for Newmarket

There’s a really strong line-up for the ITV opener, the Group 2 Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes, and while the favourite Capulet has a leading chance given he pushed Diego Velasquez close last-time-out, the Roger Varian-trained AL MUSMAK (best price 6/1) is overpriced based on the fact he is the standout form-pick of the British representation in the field. 

Ghostwriter and Aablan are undefeated in two starts each but neither of their form can match up to the way Al Musmak impressed at Haydock last time on his first go at this trip. He had no cover for much of the race yet still managed to travel into the race with great panache before being given the office to win his race in which he powered home strongly to score by a widening one and a half length. 

The way he brushed aside the well-touted Macduff who he meets again here was visually impressive. The form of his previous second behind Rosallion was subsequently let down when returning a beaten favourite in the Champagne Stakes but clearly that race was over an inadequate distance and he is better judged on that latest classy display which was a propelled reflection of his capabilities. 

It is entirely conceivable a strong pace will be in place with the possibility of either Caviar Heights or Capulet expected to go forward and force the issue. If that’s the case, this will certainly aid the cause of this hold-up performer, who should have no issue on this track, as he is a well-balanced, athletic Colt and his good body of work is really effective. He fits all the criteria as a potential winner of this race. 

The Group 1 Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes betting is headed by Relief Rally, a filly who has won four of her five starts and showcased her strong burst of speed to land the Lowther last time. However, the price differential between herself and PORTA FORTUNA (best price 10/1) is too big and it’s the Irish challenger who gets the each-way nomination in this high-class renewal.

Donnacha O’Brien’s Royal Ascot winner comfortably landed the hat-stick when slamming a decent field in the Group 3 Albany Stakes at the Royal Meeting  before a good second in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh. She could only finish third in the Moyglare Stud there last time but the step up to seven furlongs somewhat backfired and the return to this trip should see a much better outcome. 

Oisin Murphy, who rode her to finish second in the Phoenix, gets another go on her and this daughter of Caravaggio is still only rated a pound lower than the favourite with the return to faster conditions to suit. She is the joint-second highest rated in the field and I rate her chances of at least making the frame very highly. She is a great price all things considered with four places widely on offer.