HOT SEAT (8) is a promising colt yet to miss the frame after two starts, including a win last time out over 1400m at this track on November 23. Should camp just off the leaders. Expected to be in the finish once again. MEISHO KAKUUCHI (5) wasted no time getting off the mark on debut over 1400m at this track three-and-a-half months ago and has not appeared since. Has plenty of upside and should go on with it. SMART JULIUS (6) closed off strongly last start to get up for second, beaten 0.8 lengths, over 1400m at this track. Has never been out of the placings in five starts at this journey and is a key contender. ASK KENTUCKY (4) resumes after a break of three months. Did win at his only other first-up run when on debut, scoring over 1400m at this track. One of the genuine hopes in the race.