Scudamore hoping Cloth Cap delivers

Tom Scudamore is hoping Cloth Cap can live up to expectations in the Randox Grand National after Monday’s 68 confirmations.

The nine-year-old is seeking a third successive win, having topped the field recently at Kelso and Newbury, and looks like the one to beat at Aintree on Saturday.

After several withdrawals at the five-day stage, Cloth Cap is heavily fancied and jockey Scudamore is hoping he doesn’t disappoint.

Scudamore told Nick Luck’s Daily Podcast: “It looks like he’s the ideal horse and it’s the old cliche that I wouldn’t swap him for anything. If I was riding something else Cloth Cap would be the one I’d want to ride.

“He’s put up some great performances this year and he’s a stone well-in. That all points to him having a great chance, but he’s got to go and actually do it – we’ve seen it time and time again before, you can talk as much as you like, but you’ve got to go and do it.

“It’s nice to talk about it, it’s a lovely position to be in, but we’ve got to go and do it.”

Jockey Richie McLernon has regularly been on board Cloth Cap but has opted for the ride on the well-fancied Kimberlite Candy.

McLernon, who picked up a victory at last month’s Cheltenham Festival, insists Kimberlite Candy is in good shape but feels Cloth Cap will be tough to beat.

“We’re all systems go,” said McLernon. “I had a sit on him about ten days ago and he felt great so I’m really looking forward to Aintree and Tom’s happy with him, so that’s grand.”

“I know Cloth Cap well. I’ve ridden him loads and see him plenty. He’s been very impressive this year and he’s favourite for a reason. He’s a grand, straightforward horse.”