Maguire Awash With Wave Confidence

Adrian Maguire believes Black Jack Ketchum's defeat in the Cleeve Hurdle has thrown the Ladbrokes World Hurdle, in which he could saddle Celestial Wave, 'wide open'.

The former jockey has a live contender in the seven-year-old mare, but she will only take her chance if the ground is on the soft side.

Maguire's charge has won her last three starts and has established herself as the best staying hurdler in Ireland, according to her Irish handler.

'Everything is fine with her at the moment and I'm just keeping an eye on the ground,' said Maguire.

'Cheltenham gets underway in two weeks and if it was anywhere else, you would be very confident.

'But Cheltenham does drain very quickly and you would only need four or five dry days for it to be too quick for her.

'I'm in a similar situation to Martin Brassil with Nickname really as both horses need soft ground to be seen at their very best.

'She has done everything asked of her in great style and we couldn't be more pleased with her.

'I know she is going to have to step up on what she has done if she is to run, but I think there is every chance she can.

'Her form is working out well and she can't do any more than she has done in Ireland.

'With Black Jack Ketchum getting beat, the race is much more wide open now.

'Everyone was talking as if it was a one-horse race but he disappointed and that has got everyone thinking they have a chance now.

'Whatever acts on the day and whatever handles conditions best is likely to win.

'Timmy Murphy will ride her if he is available ? he has won on her twice ? and if not hopefully Conor O'Dwyer will step in as he won on her last time.'

Celestial Wave is a 7-1 chance with bet365 for the World Hurdle.

(C) PA Sport