Strong Field for Deloitte Novice Hurdle

Willie Mullins appears to hold the key to Sunday's Deloitte Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The County Carlow-based handler could run both dual Grade One winner Hurricane Fly and Cheltenham Bumper winner Cousin Vinny in the two-mile-two-furlong event.

Both are towards the head of the betting for for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and the Ballymore Properties Novices' Hurdle at the Festival in March and this race could go some way to deciding running plans.

Mullins' brother Tom also has two chances with Time Electric and Oscar Dan Dan.

Noel Meade's Pandorama looked a world-beater before coming up against Mikael D'Haguenet at Navan but had valid excuses that day and may attempt to bounce back.

Meade could also run Realt Dubh, who finished second to Cousin Vinny last time.

Colm Murphy's Zaarito may take the next step up the ladder while Dessie Hughes' Western Charmer and Jessica Harrington's Zarinava complete the home team.

Charlie Mann's Wendel, third at Ascot behind Medermit, is the sole British contender.

Hughes is hoping Western Charmer fares better than on his last run when he was only fifth to Roberto Goldback over the same course last month.

"He's in good form and I'd be tempted to run him but he disappointed the last day," said the Kildare trainer.

"I think they went too fast. The first four horses going past the winning post the first time were going a bit quick and finished down the field.

"The ground was appalling, they went a stride too quick and didn't finish."