Sprinter to face a max of 9

Sprinter Sacre will face a maximum of nine rivals in the Racing Post Arkle at Cheltenham.

Nicky Henderson's unbeaten chaser is an odds-on favourite for the Grade One contest after stretching his unbeaten record over fences to three at Newbury and could be joined in the field by stablemate Kid Cassidy.

Last year's Supreme Novices' winner Al Ferof, Cue Card, Menorah and Blackstairmountain look the biggest dangers in the expected absence of Peddlers Cross.

Astracad, Cristal Bonus, Foildubh and Nearest The Pin complete the field.