Decision soon on Zeb pilot

Colm Murphy aims to have a jockey confirmed in the next week for Big Zeb in the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

Barry Geraghty has recently been Big Zeb's regular partner, but it is possible he might be claimed by Nicky Henderson to ride Petit Robin in the two-mile feature on March 17.

"I don't know what the story is with Barry at the moment. I believe Petit Robin is going to run, so we don't know at the moment," Murphy told At The Races.

"I haven't even thought about anybody else yet. We'd be hoping it's a hurdle we don't have to jump, but it is something we'll have to get sorted out in the next week or so.

"From what I believe, Tony McCoy hasn't got a ride. There won't be any shortage of top-class jockeys wanting to ride him."

Although Murphy appreciates the stiff task Big Zeb faces against dual Queen Mother winner Master Minded, he is undaunted by the challenge.

The County Wexford trainer added: "We are a lot wiser going this year than we were last year - we are not going there to make up the numbers. I think we'd have a realistic chance in it and have a big shout."

Big Zeb, who fell four out last March before running Master Minded to a head at Punchestown, is 8/1 to win the Champion Chase.