Hard-working Banimpire can prove a killjoy for Bunting

Even in the absence of two older rivals, who might have set them a stiffer standard, the three-year-old fillies still have enough differences to sort out to make a real puzzle of the Darley Yorkshire Oaks today. They are fortunate that Midday was instead asked to represent their sex against the colts yesterday, and that Snow Fairy has been scratched in the hope of faster going in France on Sunday. But life is complicated enough for the three fillies who were divided by barely half a length in the Irish Oaks at the Curragh.

Blue Bunting has, in theory, established herself as the best of her generation, that being her second Classic success, but she may find Banimpire (3.40) even harder to pass this time. The Irish filly has continued to thrive on a hectic schedule, will relish this track and drying conditions. Wonder Of Wonders could still prove best of the lot, once the emphasis is back on speed. The chances are, however, that she may be saving her very best for a drop back to 10 furlongs and Vita Nova could prove a bigger danger. She has the advantage of maturity, while remaining less exposed than most of her juniors.

The Jaguar Cars Lowther Stakes showcases the next crop of fillies. Sunday Times represents a trainer, Peter Chapple-Hyam, who seems back on his game with his juveniles, but Gamilati (2.30) sets the standard for now.