Paul Nicholls is expecting a big run from Pic D'orhy as he bids to defend his Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton this afternoon.

A wide-margin winner of the Grade 2 prize last year, the Paul Nicholls-trained chaser returned in the perfect possible way when capitalising on Shishkin's refusal in the Chase at Ascot in November, taking his tally to an impressive eight from sixteen over fences.

Speaking on his Betfair blog, Nicholls said: "He won this by sixteen lengths a year ago and has a solid chance of completing the double."

"I don't think he was at his best when he was successful in his only race this season at Ascot where he found the ground quicker than ideal. But he still won decisively, and we fancied our chances against Shiskin before he refused to start."

"Pic D'Orhy is in good shape, working nicely and I've had this race in mind for him for a while."

Pic D'Dorhy will have to defeat four rivals if he's to retain his crown at Kempton this afternoon, with Edwardstone stepping up to two-and-a-half miles for the first time over fences, a move that when combined with better ground jockey Tom Cannon believes will be right up his street.

Cannon, who has partnered the Kayf Tara gelding in 13 of his 14 starts over fences, said: "I think it is a logical move as Edwardstone is not getting younger and now is as good a time as ever to step him up in trip. 

"Although he has not run over this distance over fences, he ran well over two and a half miles over hurdles when he was third at Aintree (in 2021).

"We are going back to slightly calmer waters having run in the Tingle Creek last time, but there are still some good horses in this race. 

"It is still a competitive race so he will have to be at his best to win."

Plenty of eyes will be on Banbridge as he makes his eagerly-anticipated return having not been seen since landing the Grade 1 Racehorse Lotto Manifesto Novices Chase at Aintree in April.

O'Brien's top-level novice chaser looks sure to appreciate the sounder conditions on offer this afternoon and trainer Joseph O'Brien is looking forward to getting his season started.

O'Brien said: "He's in good form and has prepared well for this race,"

"He's been ready to run for a little while now but just hasn't had suitable conditions.

"We're looking forward to getting him started and hopefully he runs a nice race in preparation for the spring festivals."

Banbridge currently heads the betting at 9/4 with Paddy Power.