Paul Nicholls Kauto Star and Denman head the 27 field for this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup. In 2009 he became the first horse to regain the cup and on March 19 he will try to win it for the third time, joining an elite group that includes Golden Miller, Cottage Rake, Arkle and Best Mate. Kauto is in good shape after winning his fourth King George VI Chase last month.

Denman, who won the 2008 Gold Cup, also has good chances after winning the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury in November. Trainer Paul Nicholls has also entered My Will, Taranis, Tricky Trickster and What A Friend into the Cup and expects to become the first trainer since 1935 to train four consecutive Gold Cup winners.

The field for the Cheltenham Gold Cup also includes Imperial Commander, winner of the Grade One Ryanair Chase at the Festival last season and second to Kauto Star in the Grade One Betfair Chase at Haydock Park in November. Willie Mullins Cooldine, who won the RSA Chase last year, will head the Irish challenge and trainer Mullins has also entered Glencove Marina.

Mark Bradstock is willing to let Carruthers try it after an effortless victory at Newbury. “I was over the moon with his run at Newbury because it cemented what he did in his novice season,” Bradstock said. “The time was quicker than the Long Walk Hurdle on the same card so, while they didn't appear to be going very fast, they must have been going a fair lick.”

Bradstock also said that for him it would be really fun to go for the Cheltenham Gold Cup and he remarked he wouldn’t feel ashamed to finish behind the likes of Kauto Star and Denman.

Dessie Hughes entered three contestants: In Compliance, Schindlers Hunt and Rare Bob while Noel Meade entered Aran Concerto and Casey Jones. Other notable entries that complete the field are Notre Pere, Albertas Run, Money Trix and Calgary Bay.

Undoubtedly, all eyes will be set on Kauto Star and Denman on March 19 as the Ditcheat duo take part in the definitive rematch between them. In nine weeks the two stars will go for chasing’s Blue Riband at the home of National Hunt Racing.