Hot tempo expected with Vihaan's Queen, Qondanekukhanyeni and Hot Strike heading the charge. PETIT VERDOT (4) was her own worst enemy over a mile here on the poly track last start when finishing a game third. Siphesihle Hlengwa steps back into the saddle and with the right run, she can return to winning ways. ESCAPOLOGIST (8) was given a peach of a ride when winning her last start over 2000m on this course. It must be noted that the form of that race has since been franked. She meets a similar line-up this afternoon and with luck, she can double the dose. OFF LIMITS (6) raced wide around the turn on the poly track here last time but stuck on gamely to finish fourth. She has dropped in the ratings and should return to best form. VIHAAN'S QUEEN (1) should have finished closer to the winner last time when finishing fifth. She finished second in her only attempt on this course and from the pole position, she should be involved in the fight to the finish. Each way value.