Flemington

Buckle up for the race that stops a nation! The Melbourne Cup looks a genuinely competitive staying contest, with a strong international presence and plenty of depth among the leading chances. Point Of Law is the top pick after an impressive victory in the Geelong Cup, where he showed a strong staying finish and confirmed his credentials for the two-mile test. The son of Frankel gets into the race with just 53kg, an attractive weight given his progressive profile, and looks capable of taking another step forward. Trustyourinstinct is the main danger, bringing proven two-mile credentials after winning the Curragh Cup over 3200m before finishing fourth in the Irish St Leger. He has a powerful finishing burst and James McDonald is an ideal booking, although he will need a genuine tempo to bring his best qualities into play. Hopewell Rock appeals as the next best after finishing second in the Ebor Handicap, with his recent form receiving a significant boost through Point Of Law's Geelong Cup victory. He carries just 54.5kg and looks well placed to run a strong race if he handles the extra distance. So You Are rounds out the selections after demonstrating his staying ability with victory in the 2600m St Leger Stakes. By So You Think, he has an encouraging staying pedigree and gets in with 54kg, but faces a significant class test against more established international stayers. **Point Of Law gets the nod ahead of Trustyourinstinct, Hopewell Rock and So You Are**, with his favourable weight, progressive form and Geelong Cup performance making him an appealing Cup selection. POINT OF LAW (20) Picked up nicely to win last run at Geelong and going over extra ground. Should come to hand quickly. Putting a tidy record together. Challenged by more formidable competitors. Gets a chance to win. TRUSTYOURINSTINCT (2) Freshened for this. Ran 4th last run at Curragh. Should improve here and dropping weight. Putting up notable efforts since coming back from a break. James Mcdonald is highly regarded. Respect against this field. HOPEWELL ROCK (12) First run back from a break. Missed by a narrow margin last start at York but testing ability against stronger contenders. Should be swooping on the field late. Can win this. SO YOU ARE (16) Racing on a quick back up. Reeled them in when winning last run at Bendigo and stepping up in distance. Can't knock the form winning 4 on the trot. A win wouldn't surprise.