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Captain's Blog - Thursday 16th August

Many thanks to those of you who posted comments to my blog yesterday. It is always good to get your thoughts and feedback. I always read what you have to say, after all if you are kind enough to read my drivel the least I can do is see what you have to say!

Another day in the studio for me today and it will be a busy one as we have three meetings for you on . Beverley, Salisbury and Newmarket are all part of our portfolio, so please join us from 1.30pm.

No joy with Dare To Dream at Salisbury yesterday. I am afraid that the rain spoilt our selection's chances somewhat, not for the first time this year!

Today I am keen on the chances of Nawwaar in the 4.20 at Newmarket. This lightly-raced colt ran poorly in the Britannia at Royal Ascot before returning to form at Newmarket last time. Paul Hanagan is the man on board and if he can get this horse covered up and settled early he will have a great chance of winning.

John Dunlop trains Nawwaar and much has been said about his lack of form this season, but his horses are running better now and what is done is done as far as his season is concerned. As I always say with sport stats, what has happened in the past is no guide to what is going to happen.

The third and final Test starts today and I believe England are a lay at 11/4. They have been friendless as far as punters are concerned and with all of the Pietersen saga going on in the background it will be hard for the players to focus. Not only that, Pietersen will be a big miss and he is a quality batsman who scored 149 at Headingly and however disruptive he may be behind the scenes he has played a big part in their recent success.

South Africa want the number one spot in the world and will be at England from the start and I have a feeling that with everything that has been going on England may fold under pressure. I will be laying them at 11/4 rather than backing South Africa, simply because the threat if some rain in the next five days makes the draw a possibility.

Time for me to get to the studio.

All the best.

Today's Selection

4.20 Newmarket - Nawwaar (each-way)