Seamie Heffernan is looking forward to making his Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup debut at Ascot on Satu day, where he will represent Ireland along with Richard Hughes and Neil Callan.

The only rider among the trio based in his home country, Heffernan is no stranger to the big stage for as Aidan O'Brien's second jockey to Johnny Murtagh, he has a string of major successes to his credit.

"It's my first time riding in it on Saturday and I'm really looking forward to it," he said.

"Hughesie's got some rides and I have too, but you still need a bit of luck and hopefully we can do well for the team.

"It should be good fun. it's great that the sponsors are supporting it and it's good for the sport basically.

"I don't really know much about the horses I'm riding. I've been having a quick look through the form and they all seem to be running well and have good chances. I'll study the form on Saturday and see where we're going."

"May the best team win. It's all good fun as well as sport and I'm absolutely thrilled to be part of it."