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Rattle N Roll heads the international cast in Saturday's newly promoted Gr.3 The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup. The Kenny McPeek-trained challenger, fresh from Gr.2 Clark Stakes success, partners with Joel Rosario for the US$400,000 contest.
The Saudi Cup aspirant, leased by Sharaf Al Hariri, faces compatriot EJ Won The Cup from Doug O'Neill's yard, with Mike Smith aboard. Last year's victor Power In Numbers returns under Mickael Barzalona, while local hope Scotland Yard seeks revenge with Adel Alfouraidi.
Wootton'sun brings French flair under James Doyle, as domestic Group One scorer Carracci teams with Alberto Sanna. Tom Marquand reunites with Saudi Cup veteran Carmel Road, while Defunded completes a compelling lineup. Jimmy Jerkens sends out Grocer Jack for Friday's Prince Khalid Abdullah race, adding further international intrigue.
Bahrain-based Army Ethos, formerly with Archie Watson, launches the international raid in Friday's 1351 Turf Sprint Qualifier. Stablemate Macduff, once housed by Ralph Beckett and an Epsom Derby contender, tackles the Listed Prince Khalid Abdullah Cup under Sanna.
Saturday's card features the Gr.3 Saudi Derby Qualifier, while the domestic programme peaks with two US$1.3m King Abdulaziz Cups. The Al-Dareyah Cup provides key pointers for the Obaiya Arabian Classic, complementing a robust weekend of racing action ahead of February's Saudi Cup carnival.
"Power In Numbers will have to be at his best to defend his crown against such a strong international challenge," said Barzalona. "The promotion to Group Three status has really attracted quality opposition."
O'Neill added: "EJ Won The Cup has been training exceptionally well. Having Mike Smith in the saddle gives us extra confidence for what looks like a really competitive renewal."