Donn McClean: Title-holder Minella Indo under-rated ahead of fascinating Cheltenham Gold Cup

A Plus Tard is a 3/1 shot for the Cheltenham Festival. Minella Indo won the Gold Cup last year. He was beaten by Galvin in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown at Christmas. A Plus tard has a good chance of winning the race. He finished only fourth in Irish Gold Cups last season before winning at Cheltonham. His record in March, April and May reads 131121. It's not easy to win two Gold cups in a row. L’Escargot and Al Boum Photo did it. They were the only back-to-back Gold winners in 1970/71 and 2019/20.

Mella Indo is the current champion chaser at Cheltenham Gold Cup. Tornado Flyer, Conflated and Chantry House have to prove their stamina for an extended three and a quarter miles at the race. Royal Pagaille has to improve on his performance in finishing sixth in the Gold cup last year. Protektorat skipped Chelenham in March last season and went to Aintree instead. He won the Many Clouds Chase at Aintsree. He has raced just seven times over fences. His trainer has kept him fresh for the event. Donn McClean believes the title holder is under-rated by his current odds.