NEWMARKET (ROWLEY) 15:35

Non Runners: POGO (IRE).

Time: 1m 35.6s Closing Sectional: (3f): 33.9s (105.8%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 111%, Betfair SP 101.2%

A commanding all-the-way success for the returning Benbatl made for a one-sided renewal of what looked a good edition of this Group 2 contest beforehand, the winner's performance comfortably the best since this race was upgraded from Group 3 status in 2011; the remainder were below form to varying degrees, but wouldn't have been able to live with Benbatl even if they'd brought their A-game.

BENBATL having his first start for 11 months, and first run below Group 1 level since early in 2018, translated the high-class form he's shown a couple of times abroad to gain a first success in Britain since his 3-y-o days, doing it in style as well, tanking along at the head of affairs, winding things up from 3f out and drawing clear for a hands-and-heels ride; he'll presumably take up one of his entries on Champions' Day next and will hold strong claims in either provided the ground isn't too testing (proven on good to soft), the QEII in particular appealing as a good target given the paucity of top-class milers around at present, acknowledging these forcing tactics won't be quite as easy to pull off over that stiff mile.

KING OF COMEDY (IRE) back down in trip and with his sights lowered after 5 weeks off, proved to be a disappointment, and as with York didn't look straightforward, possible that his temperament is starting to get the better of him (walked to start and fitted with first-time sheepskin noseband); dwelt, in rear, raced freely, took closer order before halfway, ridden over 2f out, carried head high and soon left behind by winner, made hard work of faring best of the rest; it's hard to see him being anything other than a bit-part player if taking up either of his end-of-season Group 1 engagements, especially if re-opposing Benbatl.

ZAAKI wasn't disgraced after 5 weeks off, and though his narrow defeat at Ascot earlier in the season suggests he can win at this grade, his merit is well established and he'll probably be better off back at a slightly lower level; mid-field, lost place before halfway, kept on from 2f out.

UAE JEWEL has presumably had some problems since bursting onto the scene in the spring and shaped as if this first outing in 5 months off was needed, a tough place to start back in any case for one so inexperienced; chased leader, shaken up over 2f out, one paced, not unduly punished and lost third close home; remains with potential now he's got this return under his belt, either at this trip or more likely back up at 1¼m, and goes into the autumn a fresh horse.

HAPPY POWER (IRE) after 5 weeks off, wasn't in the same form as last couple of starts; chased leader, labouring 3f out, faded; it could be that he's had enough for the season, on the go since mid-April after all, but will need dropping in grade if he's to regain the winning thread in any case.

ANNA NERIUM again ran poorly; mid-field, struggling soon after halfway, soon beaten.