Sheza Alibi and Birdman set for Caulfield clash

Leading trainer Chris Waller is fully aware of the significant challenge that lies ahead for his charge, Birdman, as he prepares to face the talented mare Sheza Alibi at Caulfield.

The highly anticipated clash between Birdman and Sheza Alibi is set for the Group 1 Might And Power Stakes over 2000m this Saturday. Waller has indicated that, on official ratings, Sheza Alibi appears to have the edge over Birdman.

However, a notable advantage for Birdman is his proven ability to handle the 2000m distance, while Sheza Alibi, trained by the Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman partnership, is yet to compete beyond 1600m.

Peter Moody has been keen to test Sheza Alibi at the 2000m trip, even though her primary objective this season remains The Golden Eagle at Randwick on October 31, a race run over 1500m.

Moody suggests that the 2000m run will provide valuable experience and potentially broaden Sheza Alibi's racing options for the following year and into her five-year-old career.

In preparation for Saturday's contest, Waller had Birdman participate in a gallop at Caulfield on Tuesday morning, a similar tactic employed before the gelding's victory in the Underwood Stakes (1800m) at the same track on September 19.

The champion trainer stated that he wasn't overly concerned with the specific outcome against Sheza Alibi.

"I'm not expecting to beat her easily, or anything like that, but I know our horse runs 2000 metres and with Sheza Alibi, they'll be hoping she gets 2000 metres," Waller said.

"We have to get her to fail, because if she runs to her ratings, we can't beat her, but over 2000 metres, it gives us our chance. Birdman is in great form. His win the other day was good, and he seems to have come on nicely since that."

Birdman's triumph in the Underwood Stakes saw him defeat Cosmic Crusader, who subsequently boosted the formline by winning the Turnbull Stakes (2000m) at Flemington the previous Saturday.

While Birdman has demonstrated his capability at 2000m with two previous wins, the gelding is now showing a welcome consistency in his performances.

Waller attributes this newfound consistency to Birdman's development and maturity.

"He has shown that he is a good horse and he's doing it at Group 1 level and watching him the other day, it was pretty good to see," Waller remarked.

Explore the leading online bookmakers for the best betting markets for the race.