Eclipse Stakes: Timeform's runner-by-runner guide

Al Kazeem landing the Prince of Wales's Stakes

Timeform examine the chances of each runner in a competitive renewal of the Group 1 Eclipse at Sandown...

Al Kazeem was sidelined with injury after making a winning return at Newmarket in 2012 but has proved at least as good as ever this year, gaining fourth straight Group win in Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot last time.

Declaration of War was the subject of a massive gamble when disappointing in the Lockinge in May, but ran out an impressive winner of the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot since, and has already proven stamina for 10 furlongs.

Miblish is a rangy colt who has improved this year and put up a career-best performance when finishing fifth to Al Kazeem at Royal Ascot. Looks to have bitten off more than he can chew here, however.

Mukhadram is an imposing colt with progressive profile in his light career, making all to win Group 3 over C&D in May, and well ridden when second to Al Kazeem in Prince of Wales's last time. Bit more needed here.

Pastorious was the German Derby winner last year, and looked at least as good as ever when winning Prix Ganay at Longchamp on return. Flopped in Singapore International at Kranji in May, though, and must bounce back.

The Fugue won the Musidora and Nassau Stakes last year, and unlucky in Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf in November. Very good third to Al Kazeen on belated return at Royal Ascot, and sure to come on for that.

Mars didn't get the best of runs when sixth in both 2000 Guineas and Derby this year, and again met trouble when third to Dawn Approach in St James's Palace since. Hood fitted for a step back up in trip now.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. The Fugue
2. Al Kazeem
3. Declaration of War

Timeform View: Al Kazeem had three of these behind in the Prince of Wales's Stakes and is sure to go well again, but of that trio, The Fugue had genuine excuses, and she may prove the value here with the run at Royal Ascot sure to have brought her on. Declaration of War heads a dual challenge from Coolmore, and looks next best.

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