Timeform UK SmartPlays: Sunday December 28

Catterick 13:30 - Benefit In Kind

We kick things off with a staying handicap chase over an extended 25 furlongs from Catterick and Benefit In Kind looks sure to run well. He was impressive when opening his chasing account by a wide-margin at Musselburgh earlier in the month and has sound prospects of shrugging off a subsequent 8 lb rise here. Providing he is in the same form it looks unlikely he has stopped improving yet and although the likes of Foot The Bill are respected, the selection is taken to improve past him. 

Leicester 14:10 - Tafika

We head to Leicester for the next contest under consideration, another handicap chase, this time over an extended two-and-a-half miles. The one for our money is Tafika, who won this race in 2012. He hasn't raced that much since, but confirmed his wellbeing with a respectable return to action at Southwell recently which should have put him spot on for this. Fairy Rath is likely to strip a lot fitter for a recent run too, but it is hoped Tafika can capitalise in conditions he has won in before.

Leicester 15:40 - Russborough

We remain at Leicester for our final bet of the day which comes in the concluding handicap hurdle over two miles. It might pay to side with Russborough, who looks just the type which Venetia Williams excels with in handicaps. It would be no surprise to see him leave his previous efforts in this country behind him now he is back from a break and record an impressive success, although Bladoun's last effort can't be ignored and he merits serious respect. 

Recommended Bets:

Back Benefit In Kind in the 13:30 at Catterick
Back Tafika in the 14:10 at Leicester
Back Russborough in the 15:40 at Leicester