Nicky Richards has confirmed Simply Ned will take on Douvan in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.
Simply Ned came in third in the Grade One Paddy Power Cashcard Chase at Leopardstown in December, with Douvan claiming the win.
Richards was encouraged by that performance and the Greystoke trainer is ready to send his charge into battle with Willie Mullins‘ star at the Cheltenham Festival later this month.
“He’s in grand fettle,” he said, as reported by Sky Sports. “He’s had a good old break after Leopardstown and hopefully we’re bringing him back fresh ready to have a go at the big boy (Douvan).
“It’s great prize money down to fourth and fifth. The old horse owes us nothing.”