‘Counter’ setback interrupts Cup prep

Cross Counter has suffered a minor setback in his preparation for the G1 Melbourne Cup when sustaining a cut to his leg, which has required veterinary attention.

Trainer Charlie Appleby expected the treatment to the cut to cost the gelding’s two days of routine work in his build-up to the big race.

“It is annoying, but the Cup is over three weeks away and there is time for him to be ready, provided his recovery is as we expect,” Appleby said. “He will be box-rested for two days, the vets will have another look, and then we will assess everything after that,” the trainer added.

Cross Counter has been working well at Werribee since arriving at the quarantine centre, situated on the outskirts of Melbourne.