A look at some of the extracts from the preview…

20/1 for Reve De Sivola is a big price when you consider how closely his most recent form ties in with the Paul Nicholls’ market leaders: Saphir Du Rheu and Zarkandar.

He is a sound stayer and soft ground will certainly bring this experienced Cheltenham campaigner into contention.

Lieutenant Colonel is a little bit of a forgotten horse here.  He was a good novice hurdler last season and ran well for a long way in the Neptune Hurdle before fading late on. But his late and much lamented trainer Dessie Hughes always said that he would benefit from another season jumping hurdles. Still just a six-year-old, it is reasonable to expect further improvement from the Gigginstown House gelding.

From a statistical viewpoint…

World Hurdle – 10 Year Trends

All aged 6 to 9

Top two finish last time – 9 out of 10

All has won in last two runs

All from the first four in the betting

Two to four runs that season

Trends here would rule out third favourite Rock on Ruby, along with other fancied horses: Un Temps Pour Tout, Whisper, Blue Fashion and Monksland. Question marks still surround Zarkander staying the distance and Saphir De Reu after an aborted chasing campaign.

Lieutenant Colonel could be the value bet here.  He’s been running well this season and a guaranteed stayer up the Cheltenham hill.