Top stayer Soulcombe injured in autumn blow for leading stable

Melbourne Cup runner-up Soulcombe has had his autumn campaign aborted after suffering an injury.

The import’s trainer Chris Waller on Monday morning revealed the gelding was found to have some filling in a leg, which inspections revealed would require some time on the sidelines.

“Soulcombe is unfortunately out of the autumn carnival due to having some swelling to his off-front leg which will require rest,” Waller said via a statement on social media.

“We will do our best to have him back for the spring but will take no risks and give him the relevant time required.”

The five-year-old was second favourite behind Mr Brightside for the $3 million Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington on March 30.

The son of Frankel had been progressing well for a return to racing and had participated in one jumpout at Flemington on February 9.

He has not raced since beating home all bar Without A Fight in the Melbourne Cup, having also finished third in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) last spring.