King to be double-handed in World Hurdle

Alan King expects to be double handed in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle in March with both Karabak and Katchit being aimed at the race.

Former champion hurdler Katchit returned to form at the weekend, finishing third behind Tidal Bay in the Cleeve Hurdle.

However, Karabak was a late defector on Friday morning with King not quite happy with a scope as his string continues to recover from their early-season ailments.

"I still have a few who are not quite right and as I was not 100% happy with Karabak's final scope, we opted out of Cheltenham," said King.

"I did not want to take any chances. My original intention anyway after his run against Big Buck's in the Long Walk was to go straight to the Festival, so it is not a problem.

"Katchit might not have the speed of old, but the enthusiasm is certainly still there and he never stopped battling up the hill.

"I was absolutely delighted with that run, and the World Hurdle will be his next race," he told his website, www.alankingracing.co.uk.

Karabak is a 6-1 chance while Katchit is available at 33-1.