Andrew Nelis racing

Andy Dufresne has his first test at Naas on Sunday since Gordon Elliott’s decision to keep the exciting young recruit on Irish soil and sidestep Cheltenham. The six-year-old, who lines up in the Paddy Power Betting Shop Novice Hurdle, has created a big impression with two wins from three starts over the smaller obstacles, including one at this Grade Two level at Punchestown last month. “We decided to skip Cheltenham with Andy Dufresne this year as there are a number of nice races for him at home in the spring and this race is the first of them,” said Elliott. “I thought he did well to win at Punchestown last month, I really liked the way he battled to get on top after the last and I’ve been happy with him since then. “He seems very well in himself.” Recent Fairyhouse winner Exit Poll is a notable rival for Andy Dufresne among the 10 declared. Trainer Jessica Harrington said: “We’ve always liked Exit Poll and I was delighted with his win at Fairyhouse last time out. “H...