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Binocular tops Champion Hurdle 13

Binocular and Tony McCoy will bid for a repeat win in the Champion Hurdle © Getty Images

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Binocular will face a maximum of 12 rivals when he bids to defend his Champion Hurdle crown at Cheltenham on Tuesday.

All of the big guns have stood their ground - with Binocular, Menorah, Peddlers Cross and Hurricane Fly vying for favouritism.

Nicky Henderson's Binocular was a brilliant winner 12 months ago, defying concerns over his well-being to score, and his preparation has been far smoother this time around. Khyber Kim chased Binocular home 12 months ago and he renews rivalry, while Henderson has another string to his bow in Oscar Whisky.

Hurricane Fly is the main Irish challenger but he will be joined on the trip from the Emerald Isle by Dunguib and Thousand Stars, while Mille Chief, Overturn, Bygones Of Brid, Clerk's Choice and Salden Licht make up the field.

Colin Tizzard's Cue Card will face a maximum of 21 rivals for the opening race on day one, the Supreme Novices' Hurdle.

The Irish are well represented with Mouse Morris' First Lieutenant, Dermot Weld's Hidden Universe, and Willie Mullins' Zaidpour, while Nicky Henderson has two lively challengers in Spirit Son and Sprinter Sacre. Champion trainer Pauil Nicholls could run Al Ferof, Rock On Ruby and Sam Winner

The 13-strong field for the Arkle Challenge Trophy is headed by Alan King's Medermit. The grey beat Captain Chris at Sandown last time out and that one will reoppose, while the well fanced Ghizao will go for Nicholls. Henderson's challenge is spearheaded by Finian's Rainbow, while Wille Mullins has left in Mikael D'Haguenet despite his disappointing efforts so far this season.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.