There are many who think none of the nine runners in the fray for the Villoo Poonawalla Indian Oaks, popularly also known as the "Ladies' Derby", measures up to the "class" expected of a grade 1 race, and they may well have a point. But it sure looks like one of the most puzzling Oaks field in recent years, and if it culminates in a thrilling finish which throws up an un-fancied winner, that's all that may count for those who will throng the Mahalaxmi racecourse to witness it.

All eyes will be in Mrs Patmore, the winner of the Indian 1000 Guineas, who has lost only once, that too on debut. But don't forget she would have certainly lost to owner-mate Mekong Delta on that occasion if the winning post had not come to her rescue in time--and supporters of the latter would be hoping the extra half a mile would enable her to reverse the verdict. And even more important question that begs for an answer is what exactly happened to Temerity, who was expected to win as favourite on that occasion instead of her stable mate Mrs Patmore, who actually went to the post friendless despite the nourishing odds of 12-to-1. It is interesting to note that both Mrs Patmore and Temerity have been training together, perhaps hinting at trainer's Shroff's position that he regards both their chances are equally realistic.