Despite a lead-up that breaks from the norm, Godolphin remains enthusiastic about Zardozi’s chances in Saturday’s Sydney Cup (3200m), convinced her racing style points to a natural stayer.

Unlike most of her rivals, who have had recent runs over extended trips, Zardozi arrives at the two-mile event following a third-place effort in the Australian Cup over 2000 metres.

Darren Beadman, assistant trainer to James Cummings, says her past performance in the Melbourne Cup is all the proof they need.

“She’s had the benefit of a run over the two miles in the Melbourne Cup and it was an outstanding performance to run fourth,” Beadman said.

“She probably hasn’t had the traditional lead-up races to run in the Sydney Cup but she did show a hint of dourness in her last couple of runs, hence the reason James and the team have elected to go this way with her.

“We know she can run a good, strong two miles and if there is a bit of rain around that will certainly suit her. She’s a very tough mare.”

In the spring, Cummings also strayed from convention by running her in the Empire Rose Stakes before backing her up in the Melbourne Cup just three days later.

Although her recent races haven’t been over long distances, her prior experience at 2400m-plus distances underlines her suitability for the Cup challenge.

Kerrin McEvoy will be back in the saddle, hoping to add another Sydney Cup to his resume, and she will begin from gate three.

A 20-horse field will contest this year’s Sydney Cup, with Alalcance, fresh off a stunning Chairman’s Handicap win, leading betting for the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott camp.

Duke De Sessa will shoulder topweight at 56.5kg. If successful, he’ll be the first horse in over a decade to win the race with more than 56kg on his back.