Cieren Fallon is “praying for rain” ahead of the opening day of the Flat turf season at Doncaster, where he seeks back-to-back victories in the William Hill Lincoln for William Haggas aboard Eternal Force.

The 26-year-old will also partner old friend Montassib in the William Hill Price Boosts Every Day Cammidge Trophy Stakes and with both the sprinting stalwart and improving miler having smart form with cut in the ground, conditions could prove crucial.

“The question is will it be soft enough for both Montassib and the Lincoln horse, so we will be praying for rain,” said Fallon, ahead of the big day, which will be live on Sky Sports Racing.

“They will run really well on good ground, but if we get the rain on softer ground you will see two different horses.

“William loves the Lincoln so it would be nice to get another one on the board for him. If we get the rain they will have a hell of a chance.”

It was Godwinson who provided Fallon and Haggas with Lincoln glory 12 months ago, but Montassib has also given the trainer and jockey success on this card in the past, landing the Cammidge in 2024

He would go on to provide Fallon with a third Group One success when winning Haydock’s Sprint Cup later that summer, and after being unable to defend his Doncaster crown in an interrupted 2025 campaign is back in South Yorkshire, much to the delight of his jockey.

“It’s great to start the season again on Montassib,” continued Fallon. “Hopefully he can kick-start the year well.

“To be able to partner him gives me a buzz and a bit of a thrill and I’m really looking forward to the turf season.”