Zervan, who was under suspension, and hence unable to defend his top position, is now the beneficiary of a rather strange decision of the club's appeal board which, for a monetary fine of Rs 50,000, has allowed him to wear the riding gear over the last weekend. The decision has kicked up a storm in racing circles, being debated for its wisdom or the lack of it.

Poor Zervan, who has earned each one of his 54 victories fair and square, displaying exceptional riding skill on many an occasion, may still be the favourite to win the title, but thanks to that unprecedented decision, Sandesh has monopolized the crowd's sympathies and emerged as their favourite.