Ruby Walsh had this to say after Hurricane Fly’s win in the Champion Hurdle: "I can't say I was overly confident - from the word 'go' he didn't travel as well as he can.

"He's an unbelievably big heart for a small horse. He made a mistake or two, but he's as tough as nails. I was in front a good two furlongs too soon.

"He pinged the last and I'm glad he got it back to show everyone he's a true champion hurdler."

A beaming Willie Mullins revealed: "We knew he was in good form all year. He was wining by far what I thought were the best trials in Ireland and we got luck in running.

"Last year was so disappointing, but since he came back this year he has been much heavier and stronger.

"Every gallop he's had, every race he's had, he's bounced back and taken it all in his stride. He was so aggressive in the pre-parade ring and he wanted to get on with the job.

"I was a bit worried at halfway. They'd gone such a pace and Ruby must have known that, too.

"Tactically, Ruby has a clock in his head and confidence in this horse as well. That was a big plus for this horse as a lot of other guys would maybe have taken the stick out at halfway to keep him with the pace.

"Ruby just stayed where the horse was comfortable. He's the champion hurdler again now. We'll look at Punchestown now, but I'm also very keen on the French Champion Hurdle.

"It's over three miles and one (furlong) but I think he'll stay."