Abdullah contract offers Doyle plenty of scope for Group 1 success
Published:James Doyle has already enjoyed notable success while wearing the colours of Prince Khalid Abdullah and his new full-time contract for the Juddmonte team is likely to deliver even more prizes.
And given the jockey’s high-profile successes, including a hat-trick of Group 1 scores on the Roger Charlton-trained Al Kazeem, there’s plenty to suggest Doyle and Abdullah will enjoy a fruitful partnership.
The Saudi Prince will have plenty of opportunities lined-up for his first retained rider since Richard Hughes in 2007.
And both Doyle and Abdullah have already made the perfect start to this latest stage of their working relationship.
The jockey produced 2,000 Guineas antepost favourite Kingman to land Sandown’s Solario Stakes with the two-year-old cantering home to victory.
That smooth passage will surely enhance the John Gosden-trained charge’s top level credentials.
And for Doyle it’s likely to mean another shot at Group 1 glory when the Newmarket showpiece rolls around.
But Kingman is just one of a few quality performers in a competitive yard. Abdullah’s stable ensures Doyle won’t be lacking big race chances meaning 6/4 for 4-5 Group 1 winners and the 7/2 for six or more may not be too fanciful.
Nassau Stakes victor Winsili is likely to have even more to give, especially over 10f.
Hot Snap wasn’t too far away in that contest and the conqueror of Sky Lantern in the Nell Gwyn is another of the Juddmonte team’s talented three-year-olds.
The 33/1 about Doyle becoming 2014’s Champion Jockey is probably a fair reflection of his chances of landing that gong at present.
But Abdullah’s latest move to strengthen his hand at least shows a desire for improvement.
The appointment of Doyle is potentially a symbolic gesture for an owner who until recently was thought to want to scale back his equine interests.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
Bet Now. New customers can bet £10 and get £30 in free bets
