Maraahel Among Hardwicke Hopefuls Last year´s winner Maraahel is among the 16 confirmations for the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot on Saturday.The six-year-old, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, could bid to become the first horse to land back-to-back victories in this Group Two contest since Fruits Of Love scored in 1999 and 2000.Maraahel is one of three acceptors owned by Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum ? the others being John Dunlop´s Munsef and the Barry Hills-trained Mashaahed.On his latest start, Maraahel was third in the Coronation Cup and his Epsom conqueror, the Aidan O´Brien-trained Scorpion, is the sole Irish possible.As well as Maraahel, Stoute has left in Mountain High while Godolphin could also field two in Laverock and Formal Decree.Mark Johnston can choose from Linas Selection and Luberon as he seeks a fifth success in the race.The entry is completed by Youmzain, Admiral´s Cruise, Akarem, Alfie Flits, Blue Bajan, Diamond Quest and Mighty.(C) PA Sport
