Thomas loses out as Smith books McCoy

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The 13-time champion jockey will partner the highest-rated National Hunt horse in preference to Thomas, who has been criticised after the high-profile defeats of Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase and Big Buck's in the Hennessy Gold Cup.

Thomas was unseated at the final fence in both races and, although still the No1 rider for trainer Paul Nicholls with stable jockey Ruby Walsh sidelined through injury, he suffered another wretched day yesterday.

His two mounts at Folkestone both failed to complete and Smith believes it is important Thomas regains his confidence before returning to ride at the highest level.

Smith said: "Tony McCoy will ride Master Minded at the weekend. Obviously it was a tough decision, but I think it is the right one."

The five-year-old is 4-6 favourite for the Sandown contest and Smith added: "I think it is right for Sam as we need to get him right. He is having a bad time at the moment but he will get his confidence back.

"We are also doing the right thing by the horse as he has great talent. It is just the sensible thing to do."

Meanwhile, 1993 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Jodami has died at the age of 23.

The triple winner of Leopardstown's Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup couldn't be saved by vets after suffering an accident at trainer Peter Beaumont's yard.

Beaumont said: "I've had him since he was four and he would always spend the winter with me.

"It's very sad. He suffered an injury that the vet couldn't do anything about."