So often dictated to in his races, Le Romain is set to be the dictator after drawing a good barrier in Saturday’s Kingsford Smith Cup at Doomben.

The frustration of double-figure barriers has left trainer Kris Lees with "what might have been" stories this preparation as Le Romain was fourth in the TJ Smith, runner-up in the All Aged Stakes and third in the Doomben 10,000, each time experiencing tough runs.

“You keep turning up and eventually you get a good marble,” Lees said. “A good draw like on Saturday doesn’t guarantee success, but it makes it a lot easier. He is going to get a great run, which is something he hasn’t had for a while.”

Glyn Schofield, who has had six rides on Le Romain for a couple of wins, including the Canterbury Stakes at group 1 level, and five placings, welcomed the way the marbles fell.

Le Romain will jump from barrier five, while the other main chances – with the exception of Doomben 10,000 winner English in the rails alley – drew outside gates. Impending, Champagne Cuddles and Care To Think will have to do work to find their positions from the wide gates in the early stages, while Le Romain should drop into a perfect trial.