Star set to shine at Sandown

It's been a week for the British trainers plundering the prizes at Punchestown this week - with Paul Nicholls and Alan King claiming the major races on Tuesday (Twist Magic), Wednesday (Neptune Collonges) and Thursday (Blazing Bailey) - what price Nicky Henderson to score with Punjabi today?

Taking all the above into consideration, I'm expecting canny trainer Tony Martin to cross the Irish Sea and lift the bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Sandown on Saturday with Royal County Star.

The 6/1 which is available today (Friday), is tempting enough for me and I'll have £20 win at that price.

The Irish Grand National runner-up should be good enough to go one better and lift the traditional end-of-season chase.

I think Bewleys Berry will feel the effects of the Grand National at Aintree and I'd also be mighty surprised if last week's Scottish Grand National winner Iris de Balme can follow-up.

It wouldn't be the first time though as last year's winner Hot Weld managed the unique double.

I just can't have Lothian Falcon or even Ungaro in my picks though - I think Sandown will find those two out for sure.

Good luck with your betting if you're having a punt at Punchestown today - perhaps Fiveforthree can make amends for Tuesday's reverse?

All-time record: Bets 23; Winners 7; Losers 16; Non-runners 0; Profit £642.50.