New Lindsay Park recruit Banker’s Choice is expected to follow a proven Queensland path into the Caulfield Cup, similar to Without A Fight’s successful 2023 campaign.

Although nominated for Saturday’s Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m), the stayer is unlikely to line up, with the stable favouring the Group 3 Lord Mayor’s Cup (1800m) at Eagle Farm next week instead.

The gelding, now trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, secured his Caulfield Cup start after winning the Mornington Cup and had initially been set to contest the Andrew Ramsden (2800m).

“We were going to run in the Andrew Ramsden, but then we had a discussion with the whole team,” Ben Hayes said.

“He’s qualified for the Caulfield Cup, so we thought we’d go up to Queensland instead.”

The plan now includes a run in the Lord Mayor’s Cup followed by the Group 2 Q22 (2200m), both races Without A Fight claimed before winning last year’s Caulfield and Melbourne Cups.

Hayes said Banker’s Choice had joined the stable in excellent condition and the team would now plan his campaign toward October.

“He’s a very straight-forward horse and he arrived to us in great order,” Hayes said.

“Fingers crossed. It’s a great opportunity.”