JOE Tizzard is savouring the prospect of an early-season showdown between Native River and Might Bite in Haydock’s Betfair Chase on Saturday.

The duo, trained by Tizzard’s father Colin and Nicky Henderson respectively, went toe-to-toe in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last term – with Native River eventually proving four-and a-half lengths too good after an enthralling battle which rendered the other 13 runners mere bystanders on the day.

Native River enjoyed an extended break following that gutsy triumph, while Might Bite went on to notch a seven-length success in the Betway Bowl at Aintree, and assistant trainer Tizzard is eager to see how the pair shape up on their seasonal bows.

He said: “Of course we are (looking forward to taking on Might Bite). It was a hell of a duel in the Gold Cup, and I’m glad we came out on top.

“It was good to watch. It was nice to see Might Bite bounce back at Aintree and slaughter the rest that day, because it just franks the form even more.

“It is nice to have those two competing all the time, and it would be great for racing and great for us. We have got massive respect for him, but we are not going to hide away from him. We are looking forward to it.”