Zaidpour landed the Red Mills Trial Hurdle with the minimum of fuss, justifying his prohibitive odds.

Paul Townend was content to track the leaders early on the 2/9 favourite before moving to the head of affairs at halfway.

Rich Ricci's gelding had things in control from the second last, as his rivals started to flounder, and eased to an unextended six-and-a-half length verdict. Kalann won the battle with Darwins Fox to claim the runner-up spot in the Grade Two contest.

It was a fourth success this season for Willie Mullins charge who was dropping back to the minimum trip having beaten Voler La Vedette over three miles at the course last month.

"That was straight forward enough. He jumped well and showed lots of speed," said Mullins.

"He did it well and if I could find another nice race like that I would."

Boylesports left the winner unchanged at 14/1 for the World Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Stan James are unchanged at 12/1 for the World Hurdle while they have cut him to 25/1 from 50/1 for the Champion Hurdle, which they sponsor.