IDAHO drops back to Group 3 level for the first time in two years in an attempt to regain the winning thread in the Boodles Diamond Ormonde Stakes at Chester.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained five-year-old has contested Group 1 events on his last six starts, with his most recent victory coming in the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot last June.

He has upwards of 7lb in hand of each of his five rivals, with the Richard Hannon-trained Danehill Kodiac and John Gosden’s Muntahaa next best.

Duretto would have to find 8lb on the official ratings, but he was only beaten three-quarters of a length in the race last year and trainer Andrew Balding is hoping the fact he does not carry a penalty this time will aid his chances.

He said: “He ran well in the race last year. He likes Chester.

“He had a penalty in the race last year and hasn’t got one this year.

“Any rain would aid his cause, but he seems in good form and usually runs fresh.”

Marco Botti’s Dylan Mouth and the Mick Channon-trained Elidor complete the field for the extended one-mile five furlongs heat.