Blinkers are set to go back on Autumn Boy as he prepares for his Doncaster Mile showdown against Randwick Guineas victor Sheza Alibi, with trainer Chris Waller aiming to secure a vital advantage.

The colt had blinkers on when he triumphed in the Caulfield Guineas last spring, but he has competed sans them in his three outings this preparation.

Waller feels the equipment adjustment will assist in focusing Autumn Boy more sharply now that he’s shortening up from the 2000m of the Rosehill Guineas.

“Coming back to a mile isn’t easy,” Waller said.

“I don’t think he needs the blinkers as a racehorse, but I’ve put them on to make sure he’s there in Kerrin’s (McEvoy’s) hands when he asks him to quicken.”

This three-year-old has progressed steadily through his current campaign, placing third behind Ninja in the Hobartville Stakes (1400m), then filling the runner-up spot to Sheza Alibi in the Randwick Guineas, prior to claiming victory in the Rosehill feature.

Although Sheza Alibi carries 1kg less than him in the Doncaster Mile (1600m), Waller noted that the starting gates and pace of the contest will be key factors.

The filly from Victoria leads the initial wagering at $2, while Autumn Boy is at $5.

“If he draws well and she doesn’t draw so well, the market will change a little bit,” Waller said.

“She was terrific, and he was great the other day. It comes down to luck in running.

You need a strong 2000-metre horse to win a tough Randwick mile. That’s what I’m going with, and he’s got a pretty good weight (52kg).”

Waller plans a solid presence in the event, confirming Sixties and Militarize as entrants, with Lazzura and Lady Shenandoah expected for the Queen Of The Turf Stakes (1600m), and Beiwacht likely bound for the All Aged Stakes (1400m).

Waller has taken out Randwick’s premier mile on six occasions, the latest with Winx back in 2016.

Check the latest betting markets for the race at top Australian betting sites.