A SHIN MARS (3) has the cleanest current form and deserves top billing after finishing second at Hanshin Dirt, beaten just under two lengths, with his record around 1800m giving that run a solid platform. He has been placed regularly through his career and the rider combination has also been reliable. BALIOS (8) resumes after three months off and his last run at Chukyo was better than the finishing position suggests, beaten only two and a half lengths in a small field after looming without finishing it off. The first try around 1800m is the obvious query, but his 12-month profile is strong enough for this. TAGANO ALTURA (7) worked home evenly when ninth at Hanshin and has a recent Kokura line over Balios, though he also tackles this distance range for the first time. UNCLE BLACK (4) brings commanding G2 Steeplechase winning form and a strong overall record, but the lengthy absence and return to 1800m keep him as a place-leaning danger rather than a confident win play.