Nicholls has a strong hand in this year's Cheltenham Gold Cup

Trainer Paul Nicholls has confirmed that Sam Thomas will ride last year's Gold Cup winner Denman in next month's race at the Cheltenham Festival.

There had been some speculation that Thomas might lose the ride after a disappointing run of form.

Ruby Walsh will again partner former winner Kauto Star, who was second to Denman last year.

Christian Williams takes the ride on board last year's third-placed finisher Neptune Collonges.

Thomas was unseated on both Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase and Big Buck's in the Hennessy Gold Cup before Christmas and champion jockey Tony McCoy was being tipped to replace him.

606: DEBATE Give your predictions for Cheltenham

Although Walsh rode Denman on his disappointing seasonal return at Kempton earlier this month after 11 months out following treatment for a heart problem, Thomas will hope that his reunion with the nine-year-old will pay dividends.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version