Nicky Henderson's gelding is all the rage for the showpiece and will bid to win the race for the second time on the bounce.
With two victories so far this season, the son of High Chaparral has extended his unbeaten run to sixteen and cemented his position as one of the great two-mile chasers of modern times.
An easy winner of the Queen Mother last season, the market suggests he will be very difficult to beat once again.
Among those hoping to dethrone him in this year's contest could be Willie Mullins' Footpad, last seen finishing a gallant second to Simply Ned over the Christmas period.
A brilliant victor of the Arkle last season, connections will be hoping he can return to something near that form if he's to lay a glove on the jolly.
Mullins is also responsible for Great Field, Min and veteran Un De Sceaux, who ran a belter in the Tingle Creek back in December.
Others confirmed from across the water include the Henry De Bromhead trio of Ordinary World, Petit Mouchoir and former winner of the race Special Tiara.
Gordon Elliott could bring over either A Toi Phil or Doctor Phoenix, while Pat Fahy relies on sole entrant Castlegrace Paddy.
Closer to home, Paul Nicholls is responsible for both Diego Du Charmil and Politologue, while his former assistant Harry Fry could field the progressive Hell's Kitchen.
Former runner-up Fox Norton is Colin Tizzard's only entry, Nicky Richards has put forward recent Grade 1 winner Simply Ned, Tom George relies on smart type God's Own, and Philip Kirby has confirmed Lady Buttons.
Brian Ellison's Forest Bihan, Philip Hobbs' Ozzie The Oscar and Harry Whittington's Saint Calvados complete the possible field.
Source: Read Full Article