The going remains unchanged at Leopardstown ahead of this afternoon's BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle meeting.

The hurdle track is currently good, good to yielding in places, while the ground on the chase course is good all over.

Just four go to post now for the feature following the late withdrawal of hot-favourite Faugheen due to slight lameness. Petit Mouchoir and Nichols Canyon renew rivalry after the former readily came out on top here at Christmas in the Ryanair Hurdle, while Ivanovich Gorbatov and Footpad complete the line-up.

There is further Grade 1 action on the card with Identity Thief facing three rivals in the Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase.