ROYAL ORLEANS (2) gets the nod despite still being a maiden, with his first-up fourth at this track looking solid enough for a race of this depth. He was beaten nine and a half lengths by First Attack but was fair to the line, and the leading trainer and jockey profile adds confidence. ROUGE SHARAPOVA (8) resumes for Gen Hayashi and her recent form reads plainly, yet the supplied ratings keep her right in the mix if the fresh start sparks improvement. DARE TO KNOW (5) has been well held at her past two, but her 1400m record is the key counterpoint, with two placings from three tries around this trip. SAKINO CLOVER (11) has the most consistent recent pattern, with a third then fourth at Funabashi, and can press for a placing if he handles 1400m for the first time.