5f Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) (Class 1) (2yo)
Thunderstorms failed to materialise over Ascot last night and only 3mm of rain fell so good to firm remains and now looks the right time to side with Wesley Ward’s LUCCI at 6/1, who won’t have wanted any rain. Ward made no secret that the horse is a big forward two-year-old and the clear number one from his two runners. I don’t see much strength in depth from the home team and suspect he could be a cut above. There’s a strong Irish challenge too with Cadamosto in the ‘could be anything’ bracket, but Joseph O’Brien’s ANDREAS VESALIUS looks the value at 20/1 and boasts similar form, having beaten the same horse Cadamosto did on debut. Both horses are drawn high so won’t have any excuses.
1pt win Lucci @6/1, 14:30 Royal Ascot, Thursday
1pt Andreas Vesalius @20/1 14:30 Royal Ascot, Thursday