Maraahel took the step up into Group company in his stride when running out an easy winner of the ABN Amro Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.
The 9-4 second favourite, trained by Michael Stoute, was settled in mid-division by Richard Hills and lengthened well entering the final two furlongs to score by a length and a half.
Kieren Fallon on Aidan O'Brien's Go For Gold cut through the pack to take second, while Remaadd was a further length and a half away in third spot.
The race is often an informative trial for the St Leger and the Sir Michael Stoute-trained winner earned a quote of 7-1 from William Hill for the Doncaster Classic.
Dettori suffered another blow, though, as his Duke Of Venice, sent off the 13-8 favourite, was under pressure three furlongs from home and after finishing unplaced was eased to 12-1 in the St Leger betting.
Afterwards Richard Hills said: "He has got a lovely attitude and was always travelling like a winner. He also quickened, which will put him in good stead at Doncaster.
"It's perfect ground out there - real good to firm - and I think this horse will go on any ground. He has got a great attitude and always wants to give you that extra bit."
Angus Gold, racing manager to winning owner Hamdan Al Maktoum, said: "The St Leger is the obvious target. Richard says he is such a relaxed horse and nothing bothers him, which would help him stay. And for a stayer, he has a good turn of foot. He is only a lightly raced horse, so he could run between now and Doncaster."
Asked about the possibility of an outing in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York next month, he replied: "It's an option."
Filed by James McMahon
