Rain The Concern For Rakti Team Michael Jarvis is hoping the rain stays away from Newbury ahead of Rakti´s run in the Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes on Saturday. The six-year-old was one of 11 declared for the Group One contest at the final 48-hour declaration and heads the market at 11-4 with Ladbrokes after winning twice at the highest level last year. Jarvis, who has elected to go to Newbury with Rakti rather than wait for a race in Italy on Sunday, said: 'He´s in good order, but I hope the rain that´s forecast does not develop. 'I don´t want the ground to turn. It´s perfect for him at the moment. 'As you´d expect, it´s a competitive race, but he seems in good form.' Rakti forms part of a classy line-up with Luca Cumani´s recent Leicester winner Le Vie Dei Colori seeking a first Group One win in Britain, while Aidan O´Brien relies on the enigmatic Antonius Pius. The latter looked certain to win the French 2000 Guineas last season before jinking out and colliding with the rails. He also just failed to catch Singletary in the Breeders´ Cup Mile. 'He´s is good form,' said the Ballydoyle handler. 'He´s a grand sort, who has been working well. 'He´s a horse with a lot of speed, so we could keep him over a mile or he could drop back in trip.' Australian star Elvstroem will make his British debut, while Godolphin run the ex-South African gelding Grand Emporium. Sir Michael Stoute won the race last year with Russian Rhythm and this season he runs Arakan, although he has taken out Chic. Autumn Glory, Babodana, Hurricane Alan, Mac Love and Tarfah complete the field. ? PA Sport
