Waller eyes Birdman’s 2000-metre strength in Might And Power

Chris Waller believes Birdman’s proven 2000-metre ability gives him a chance against Sheza Alibi in Saturday’s Group 1 Might And Power Stakes at Caulfield.

After Birdman worked on the course proper at Caulfield on Tuesday, Waller said: “If she runs to her ratings, we can’t beat her, but over 2000 metres it gives us a chance and Birdman’s in great form.”

Birdman won the 2000-metre Doomben Cup earlier this year before beating Cosmic Crusader by 1¾ lengths in the 1800-metre Underwood Stakes on September 19.

Cosmic Crusader strengthened that form with victory in Saturday’s Turnbull Stakes at Flemington.

Waller attributed Birdman’s progression at Group 1 level to maturity and age, and said Craig Williams was full of compliments after riding him in trackwork.

“His action, his attitude and his recovery, all first class. So couldn’t have been happier with this morning’s workout,” he said.

Peter Moody will assess how Sheza Alibi and Pounding recover from Tuesday’s Pakenham work before settling their plans.

“At this stage thinking both go to the Might and Power,” he said.

The pair worked separately over seven furlongs on the course proper, with Pounding about 400 metres ahead of Sheza Alibi. Moody said both were in good order and their recovery had pleased him.

Sheza Alibi’s planned route to the Golden Eagle includes her first attempt beyond 1600 metres, following her Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes victory over that distance on September 12.

Waller also assessed Aeliana’s third behind Cosmic Crusader and Light Infantry Man in the Turnbull as she builds towards the Cox Plate at Flemington.

“Yes, she was probably one run away from a peak, so that was pleasing to see,” he said.

“It was a solid test. Should bring her on nicely.”