The likely Melbourne Cup field has once again undergone a significant adjustment, as prominent trainer Annabel Neasham has officially declared that her two stayers will not be participating in next weeks race.
In a report to the stewards, Neasham confirmed on Wednesday that King Frankel and Fancy Man would not be competing in the $8.4 million event. King Frankel occupied the 15th spot in the order of entry for the Melbourne Cup 2023, while Fancy Man was positioned just outside the top 24 in 28th place.
As a result of their withdrawal, the field for the Melbourne Cup has now dwindled to just 30 contenders, down from the 32 horses that remained after the third declaration stage on Monday. Notably, King Frankel’s removal from the list has paved the way for New Zealand-trained Ladies Man to secure a spot among the top 24 entrants, with the Bendigo Cup and The Archer being the last key factors in deciding the race.
Both horses were outsiders in early Melbourne Cup markets with online betting sites.
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