BRAD Rawiller believes Akzar can reaffirm his status as one of the most improved horses in the country in Saturday’s Doomben Cup, reports Racxing Network.
Rawiller said he could not fault Akzar, which is coming off a record-breaking six length Warrnambool Cup win at his most recent start.
He noted that Akzar worked well the clockwise direction at Warrnambool last Monday and despite the quantum leap to Group 1 level all the indicators are positive that he can make the jump.
“He’s going into Group 1 at weight-for-age, a big step up from what he’s been against, but his form this time in has been outstanding and he’s deserving of the chance,” Rawiller said.
“He handles the reverse way terrific and he won his first start in Ireland going the reverse way. He is just in great order.
“It wasn't the brilliance of the work, but just the workman-like way he went about it”
Rawiller said the Darren Weir-trained Akzar, a four-time winner since joining Darren Weir’s stables less than five months ago, is ready for what is unquestionably his toughest challenge.
He acknowledged the drop back to 2000 metres is a query, but added that Akzar had been responsible for some brilliant sectionals when he won at the distance at Flemington.
Sportsbet.com.au rates Akzar a $4.80 third favourite behind Streama $4.40 and Leebaz $4.60