The Jebel Ali Sprint is a fortnight away and Friday’s Jebel Ali card is highlighted by a prep race, over the same minimum trip of 1000m and a maximum field of 16 will go to post.

Both this race and the Listed feature in two weeks are sponsored by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Shadwell organisation.

Trained on the course by Dhruba Selvaratnam, Alo Pura, as a filly, receives weight from all bar one of her rivals and was a winner last time under William Buick who said: “That was a good performance and we have to hope she can go close but this is a stronger race obviously.”

Taqseem, owned by Sheikh Hamdan, won the Jebel Ali Sprint in 2007 and looks a big danger under Richard Hills for trainer Musabah Al Muhairi.

The following 1200m handicap is a competitive affair with Erwan Charpy’s Minefield an interesting contender under stable jockey Tadhg O’Shea, while Palm Court won well last time and is feared for the Ali Rashid Al Raihe/Roytson Ffrench combination who are enjoying a great season.

Rod Simpson’s Surprise Package can go close in the penultimate race, a 1400m handicap and stable companion Shahin Shah is respected in the 1600m handicap.

Both Selvaratnam and Champion Trainer Doug Watson are represented by strong teams throughout the afternoon and should be among the winners.