Timeform UK SmartPlays: Sunday December 27

Ashoka - 12:50 Kempton

We're not taking on Favorito Buck's lightly on his British debut- as a listed winner in France who has joined Paul Nicholls, he has started down the path taken by so many great horses. The hype, though, could make Ashoka a good bet. He made a good impression when winning on his debut for Dan Skelton at Warwick, looking far superior to his rivals, more than the margins could imply.

The Last Samuri - 14:35 Kempton

The Rehearsal Chase has worked out well already, first two Wakanda and Virak filling the same positions in a listed handicap at Ascot last weekend. Third behind them at Newcastle was The Last Samuri, who can continue his own upwardly-mobile trend by winning this race from the same mark. Dangers are unsurprisingly easy to spot, headed by Foxbridge and Ballyheigue Bay.

Tara Mist - 15:10 Kempton

There remains an air of unfinished business about Tara Mist, who ended 2014/15 with a win but has yet to recapture that sort of form. The chance is taken that she can emulate her sister Mickie, who won this race two years ago. Desert Queen is an obvious danger, while Tagrita falls into much the same category as the selection.

Timeform UK SmartPlays (all Kempton)

Back Ashoka in the 12:50
Back The Last Samuri in the 14:35
Back Tara Mist in the 15:10