Target scratched at Ascot

Takeover Target will not get a chance to add another Group 1 triumph to his glittering career after the star sprinter was a shock scratching for the Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot on Saturday.

The 10-year-old had a high temperature on Friday morning and trainer Joe Janiak was left with no option but to withdraw the gelding from the feature race.

Takeover Target has been a regular feature in the Golden Jubilee, finishing second, third and fourth over the past three years and looked set for another strong finish this year.

Takeover Target's withdrawal has suspended betting, but expect Sacred Kingdom and JJ The Jet Plan to be vying favouritsm in the race that has last year's winner Kingsgate Native returning from his stud duties to defend his title.