Alfie to skip Irish National at Fairyhouse

Alfie Sherrin was a surprising absentee at the latest forfeit stage for Monday’s Ladbrokes Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse.

Jonjo O’Neill’s 10-year-old had been a leading fancy for the Easter Monday showpiece in Co Meath since the weights had been released.

Other notable absentees include the Willie Mullins-trained duo of Back In Focus and Boston Bob, who endured contrasting fortunes at Cheltenham.

Mullins has also taken out Quel Esprit, leaving Quiscover Fontaine, Marasonnien and Away We Go as his only possibles.

The David Pipe-trained Junior now resides at the top of the weights, followed by Tony Martin’s novice Dedigout.

Dedigout is owned by Gigginstown House Stud, who could also run Sweeney Tunes, Carry Each Other, Sea Of Thunder, Magnanimity, Carlito Brigante, Romanesco, Toner D’Oudairies, Start Me Up, Panther Claw and Tillahow.

Competitive Edge, Rich Revival and Jadanli are among those still in contention.

There are 51 remaining entries and the maximum field is 30 runners.