9 declared for the Champion Hurdle

Rock On Ruby will face a maximum of eight rivals in his bid to win back-to-back renewals of the Stan James Champion Hurdle.

Harry Fry's runner, who will wear blinkers for the first time, is set to renew rivalries with Hurricane Fly, Binocular and Zarkandar, who finished third, fourth and fifth respectively last season.

Along with 2010 hero Binocular, Nicky Henderson also has Khyber Kim and Grandouet, the latter seemingly on course after fears over his well-being were quashed by the trainer on Saturday.

Last year's Supreme Novices' Hurdle winner Cinders And Ashes, Triumph Hurdle champion Countrywide Flame and Alan King's Balder Succes complete the field, with Cotton Mill the absentee.