Protektorat heads the field in Sunday’s Fleur De Lys Chase at Windsor as the Skelton team eyes another major prize. The defending champion impressed last year, winning by 23 lengths, and returns as a strong favourite if fit and ready.

The Grade One contest shapes as a stern test, with Ben Pauling’s Handstands posing the main threat. That horse won the Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase last term but underperformed in the Betfair Chase. His ability to bounce back makes him a key rival.

Other runners like Matata, fresh off a Cheltenham win, and improving handicap chasers such as Lud’or and Nab Wood, add depth to what promises a competitive day. Harry Skelton retains the ride on Protektorat, boosting confidence in a tight contest.