Melbourne Cup contender suffers setback

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Pinatubo shines at Royal Ascot

Charlie Appleby has confirmed Melbourne Cup favourite Cross Counter has suffered a small injury during preparation for the race.

The three-year-old suffered a cut on his lower leg, requiring veterinary attention on Sunday.

Connections, however, are hoping to manage the condition of the Godolphin-owned horse, ahead of the showpiece event at Flemington on November 6.

‘It’s annoying but the Cup is over three weeks away and there is time for him to be ready, provided his recovery is as we expect,’ said Appleby. 

‘He will be box-rested for two days, the vets will have another look, and then we will assess everything after that.’ 

Cross Counter has proven in the past he can run well, after lowering the course record at Goodwood with a brilliant win in the Qatar Gordon Stakes. 

In his last run out, he finished second behind stablemate Old Persian in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York.

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