TV TIPS (SATURDAY)

It's the first classic of the season as all eyes turn to Newmarket and the 2,000 Guineas with the ITV action coming from 'Flat HQ', Goodwood and Thirsk this Saturday. 13:30 GOODWOOD

A drop back in trip looks a sensible move for Fitzella, who shaped as though failing to stay seven furlongs in the Nell Gwyn earlier this season. She travelled well for much of the race before weakening late on, so this return to six furlongs could see her in a better light. However, with just one win to her name, she may be vulnerable at short odds.

Zooming, in contrast, gave the impression that further might suit when finishing strongly over seven furlongs at Newbury a fortnight ago. That was a solid effort, though the drop in trip raises a slight concern.

Hassaleh is the more intriguing option. She impressed when landing her maiden and looks a filly capable of better, with black-type potential. Representing a powerful yard, she appeals as a value alternative.

HASSALEH (E/W)

13:45 NEWMARKET

Double Rush produced a commanding performance to land a course-and-distance success last month, pulling clear of his rivals in decisive fashion. Despite a rise in the weights, he looks progressive and should remain competitive.

However, Invictus Gold, who finished third in that race, could get much closer this time. He had plenty to do late on and may have been disadvantaged by his draw. With a more favourable position in the stalls alongside Double Rush, he could reverse the placings.

Jakajaro and Coul Angel both have proven course form, while Addison Grey also merits consideration after a solid second last time.

Invictus Gold is taken to close the gap.

INVICTUS GOLD (E/W)

14:05 GOODWOOD

Blue Bolt and Shes Perfect bring the strongest form into this race, both having contested Group 1 company on their latest starts. It looks likely that the winner will come from this pair.

Blue Bolt edges preference, having shown consistency with a string of top-two finishes and appearing to be progressing at a steady rate. She may have more improvement to come compared to her main rival.

Shes Perfect commands respect but may find the selection just too strong if both run to their best.

Of the remainder, Never Let Go showed promise on the all-weather earlier in the year and could step forward again.

BLUE BOLT (WIN)

14:20 NEWMARKET

Fifth Column was once considered a horse of significant promise but failed to build on that early potential, producing a series of underwhelming efforts in higher-profile contests. Now returning for his four-year-old campaign, he may have matured and could yet fulfil that promise.

Botanical shaped well in the Lincoln at Doncaster and, with the yard in good form, looks capable of progressing further and going close.

Mister Winston arrives on the back of a win and remains open to improvement, while the lightly raced Alcarath is another to consider.

Both Botanical and Fifth Column appeal as each-way options in a competitive race.

BOTANICAL (E/W) FIFTH COLUMN (E/W)

14:40 THIRSK

A competitive handicap for the sole ITV race at Thirsk. Sea Force will be looking to bounce back after disappointing as favourite at Musselburgh on his seasonal return. He failed to see out the longer trip that day, so this drop back to a mile should suit, and improvement is expected.

Al Mubhir is an interesting contender for Kevin Ryan. Previously trained by William Haggas before a stint in Australia, he returns to Britain with a somewhat mixed profile but could surprise if adapting well.

Blue For You has been consistent on the all-weather and cannot be ruled out, while Bellarchi’s recent wins mark him as a player, though this represents a tougher test.

Course-and-distance winners Flight Plan and Mirsky also warrant respect.

SEA FORCE (E/W) AL MUBHIR (E/W)

14:55 NEWMARKET

Asfoora enjoyed an excellent campaign last season, culminating in Group 1 success in the Prix de l’Abbaye, and sets a clear standard on form. Now making her debut for a new yard, she will be expected to go close if maintaining that level.

Night Raider showed promise last season but has yet to fully deliver on that potential. A return to his best would see him more competitive.

Rumstar, a previous course-and-distance winner, should appreciate conditions and could pose a threat if ready on his return.

Quinault and Beckford’s Folly are others to consider, though Asfoora looks the standout.

ASFOORA (WIN)

15:35 NEWMARKET - 2,000 GUINEAS

written by Rory Paddock