Ciaron Maher is keeping faith in veteran stayer Smokin’ Romans, who returns to the top level in Saturday’s Group 1 Underwood Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield.

The nine-year-old will line up alongside stablemates Zardozi and Middle Earth as he builds towards another tilt at the Caulfield Cup (2400m).

Smokin’ Romans captured the Naturalism Stakes (2000m) and Turnbull Stakes (2000m) in 2022 before finishing seventh in both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cup (3200m).

He was narrowly denied last start by Revelare, who went on to win the Archer Stakes (2500m) and secure a Cup berth.
“He’s in a really good spot, Smokey,” Maher said.
“His form is good, and he carried a lot more weight than Revelare last time … he’s on track for the Caulfield Cup as well.”

Middle Earth, rated one of the stable’s key Cup hopes, continues to build fitness, while former Godolphin mare Zardozi also shapes as an improving prospect after a strong first-up run.