11 declared for the Gold Cup

Ante-post favourite Bobs Worth spearheads 11 declarations for the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup on Friday.

The Nicky Henderson-trained eight-year-old has not been seen since December when he emerged an outstanding winner of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury.

Henderson is also represented by the 2011 Gold Cup winner Long Run, who claimed the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.

Captain Chris, a narrow runner-up in the King George, is also in contention for the Philip Hobbs team.

Last season's Gold Cup second The Giant Bolster has another try for trainer David Bridgwater.

Paul Nicholls will also have high hopes for Silviniaco Conti, who is unbeaten in three starts this season and was particularly impressive in the Betfair Chase at Haydock in November.

Ireland are well represented by the Willie Mullins-trained Sir Des Champs, who defeated Flemenstar in the Irish Hennessy on his last start in February.

Compatriot Bog Warrior is still in the final field, but he also holds an entry in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle on Thursday.

Jonjo O'Neill pitches John Smith's Grand National aspirant Sunnyhillboy in at the deep end.

Cape Tribulation, Monbeg Dude and Wayward Prince complete the line-up.

First Lieutenant, who runs in the Ryanair Chase on Thursday, is the only defection.