Illustrious Blue Melbourne bound

Illustrious Blue has been given an entry in the Melbourne Cup following his impressive success at Goodwood last week.

The seven-year-old has proved a revelation since being stepped up to two miles this season, winning Ascot's Sagaro Stakes and Thursday's Group Two Goodwood Cup.

"We've given him an entry in both the Caulfield Cup and the Melbourne Cup," said trainer William Knight.

"That just keeps our options open and we can make definite plans nearer the time."

"He's come out of his Goodwood race very well and we might look at the Lonsdale Cup at York next on August 18."

"There is also the Doncaster Cup to consider but obviously if we do head out to Australia, he doesn't want to be running too many more times in England."

"He'd have to go through the quarantine and all that sort of stuff."

"It's a big call taking a horse all the way down there, but he has the entry now so we have the option."