JAMIE OSBORNE will partner leading fancy Major Bell in Saturday's Stakis Casinos Scottish Grand National after original booking Tony Dobbin was forced to give up the mount after breaking his collar bone.
Dobbin's injury, sustained in a fall from Allerby in a novice hurdle at Hexham on Monday, means a three-week lay off and rules out his chances of landing a rare Grand National Scottish National double.
Major Bell's trainer Alistair Whillans yesterday confirmed Osborne as his gelding's new pilot. "Jamie Osborne will ride and Major Bell is in good form," the trainer said.
Meanwhile, David Nicholson confirmed that he will mount a two-pronged attack on the race with Sounds Strong and Baronet. "Both horses are very well and are definite runners at this stage. The ground won't be a problem and I'm looking forward to it," he said.
On the betting front, Ladbrokes report Act the Wag has been subject of some very strong support and is down to 10 to 1 from 14 to 1 whilst Sister Stephanie has also had her supporters and she is 10 to 1 from 12 to 1. Lo Stregone is out to 14 to 1 from 12 to 1.
On the Scottish Grand National undercard, Pridwell, the 1-8 winner of a match at Cheltenham yesterday, is a possibility for the Scottish Champion Hurdle.
"We'll have to see how he is in the next few days and it'll depend on where the owners want to go as he is also in a race at Punchestown next week," said trainer Martin Pine.
However, Richard Rowe, on the mark with Sir Dante at Cheltenham, confirmed I'm Supposin would tackle the Scottish Champion Hurdle.
