NIGHT SLUGGER (4) returns from a layoff of four months. Worth noting he filled a minor placing when returning from a spell last time in work over 2000m at Kokura. Likes to settle off the speed so the small field suits. Should be hard to stop. WATER CLARK (8) made a strong late bid but just failed to pick up the winner when fresh from a spell last start over 1600m at Hanshin. Will strip a lot fitter this time around. In the right race and is a winning hope. WILL SURVIVE (9) turned in a solid fresh performance last start when a minor placegetter over 1800m at Hanshin, beaten a head. Has a strong record when second-up, including two wins. Leading chance. LADY MYKONOS (6) finished fifth at her recent second-up appearance over 1800m at Nakayama. Important to note she won at the only third-up run so don't underestimate.