Trainer Nicky Henderson hopes for a drying weekend after confirming Sprinter Sacre an intended runner in the Boylesports.com Champion Chase at Punchestown on Tuesday.

The brilliant seven-year-old has again been imperious this season, taking his unbeaten run over fences to nine with victories at Sandown, twice at Cheltenham and most recently Aintree.

Henderson said on Friday afternoon: “Sprinter Sacre is going to go to Ireland. His work has been good and everything is tickety-boo with him.

“I’m happy with him and he deserves to go to Ireland. There is a nice race for him there and we hope for a dry weekend.”

“Punchestown has always been very good to us. “Barry (Geraghty) sat up on him yesterday and said that he felt great. All his checks are good and he appears to be in great form”.

Punchestown general manager Dick O’Sullivan said: “Sprinter Sacre coming to Punchestown is a massive sporting occasion.

“He is a magnificent athlete and you don’t need to be a racing fan to appreciate sheer sporting brilliance when you see it.

“Nicky Henderson has always been a great supporter of Punchestown and he really recognises the fact that, with this horse, he has a superstar in his care.

“He has mentioned a couple of times that the people of Ireland would really appreciate a chance to see Sprinter Sacre race and he has delivered on that today.”