Denman to wait for Newbury

Denman will not complete his totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup preparations in Saturday's Argento Chase and waits for Newbury next month instead.

Connections had been considering Saturday's Cheltenham feature for their 2008 Gold Cup and dual Hennessy winner but will instead go for the Aon Chase at Newbury on February 13th.

Trainer Paul Nicholls told the Racing Post: "Paul Barber and Harry Findlay (owners) have had a chat and have decided to wait for the Aon Chase at Newbury in a fortnight's time. That is absolutely fine by me."

Denman has won all five of his races at Newbury and is 7/4 with Sky Bet for the Gold Cup.

Ruby Walsh is likely to ride Inchidaly Rock in Saturday's Argento Chase.

Nicholls will also run the long-term absentee Taranis at Prestbury Park.

Inchidaly Rock is only a novice but is unbeaten in two starts, including one at Cheltenham in December.

He certainly has less jumping experience than former Ryanair and Down Royal Grade One winner Taranis, who has not been seen since being pulled-up in the 2007 King George.

Nicholls said: "Ruby wants to ride at Cheltenham on Saturday and while I will sort it all out with him tonight, I suspect he will ride Inchidaly Rock, as I think Taranis will need the run.

"I was happy enough to run Denman there too but Paul Barber and Harry Findlay (the owners) were keener to go to Newbury."