Trainer Adrian Bott is confident Eliyass can redeem himself in Saturday’s Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m) after a forgettable run on testing ground in the Hollindale Stakes earlier this month.

Backed into $4.60 second favouritism for the Hollindale, the dual Group 3 winner failed to handle the heavy conditions and was beaten by over 20 lengths behind Antino. Bott, who trains in partnership with Gai Waterhouse, has since written the run off.

“Eliyass was obviously disappointing at the Gold Coast last start,” Bott told SEN Track. “But I think it’s hard to get a read on his performance given how badly he struggled on that track.”

Having remained in Queensland, Eliyass pleased the stable with his trackwork on Tuesday and has recovered well from the run.

“He’s come through it in good shape, so I can bank on him being able to bounce back,” Bott said. “His spring form gives us a lot of confidence.”

That includes a third placing behind Via Sistina in the Turnbull Stakes (2000m), suggesting he has the class to be competitive at the top level.

Drawn widest in the 13-horse Doomben Cup field, Eliyass faces a tactical test, while rival Pride Of Jenni drew ideally in gate one. Still, with Brisbane’s weather improving, Bott is hopeful of a form turnaround.

“Some horses handled the ground, some didn’t. He was one that didn’t. But he’s done everything right since,” he added.

Bott also confirmed that recent Group 3 Chairman’s Handicap winner Sir Delius is heading for a Melbourne Cup prep. “He’s going to the paddock today,” Bott said. “Everything is being planned around the Melbourne Cup.”

Eliyass is currently rated a $9 chance for the Doomben Cup, with Tim Clark to ride. Antino, who beat him comfortably in the Hollindale, is the early $3.50 favourite under Blake Shinn.

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