Setback Rules Out Sri

Sri Diamond has suffered a setback that has ruled him out of the £100,000 Betdirect Winter Derby he won last year.

The seven-year-old has an infection in his off-hind foot so was not among a field of 12 declared for the Group Three event over 10 furlongs.

'I'm afraid he's got a bad infection in his off-hind foot and he's very sore,' said trainer Sylvester Kirk.

'He was fit enough, though I was worried he was not quite ready, and it's so frustrating after all the work and effort that's been put in to try and get him there.

'Something unconnected with the trouble we have been having has come along and scuppered us.

'He'll probably be OK in a few days.

'He's always been a bit fragile and we had a bit of trouble with a joint the last time he ran. However, the vet had been very happy with him and it's just so frustrating.

'The owners have been very patient with him. That's horses, but he lives to fight another day.

'It depends what happens but we've got the Magnolia Stakes on the 7th (at Kempton). That will be our next plan of attack. It's not the Winter Derby but it's a nice consolation prize if we can get him back organised for that.'

The two other horses taken out at the 48-hour final declaration stage were Luberon and Red Spell.

Sri Diamond had been second favourite at 11-2 with the sponsors, who now make Blue Bajan and Gentleman's Deal joint favourites at 9-2 with track record holder Cusoon 6-1.

(C) PA Sport