Rock On Ruby will have another race before attempting to defend his Champion Hurdle crown

Harry Fry has had a change of heart and is now likely to give champion hurdler Rock On Ruby another run before the defence of his crown in March.

The seven-year-old travelled well for most of his comeback in the stanjames.com International Hurdle but lack of a recent run took its toll and he trailed home eight lengths behind Zarkandar and Grandouet.

In the immediate aftermath of the race Fry suggested his stable star could head back to Cheltenham without the aid of another run but he tweeted: "Rock On Ruby 100% this morning, delighted with his first run of the season, plenty to build on. Another run before March more than likely."