THE AGENCY (1) returns after six-and-a-half months in the paddock. Closed the last campaign with a fourth over 1200m at Belmont Park. Good effort to launch last prep when in the money at Bunbury over 1200m. Ran sixth in a recent trial at Belmont Park. Has ability and can get off the mark. DARK OPAL (9) progressed nicely last time out to finish just a head from the winner in second over 1000m at Pinjarra Scarpside after being in contention on the corner. Best figures measure up. Sure to run well. HOPE TO RULE (11) resumes from a spell of six months. Could only manage to finish ninth at the latest run over 1300m at Belmont Park. Launched last prep with a minor placing at Belmont Park over 1200m. Looks forward enough following an impressive trial win recently. Rates highly on best figures and should be right in this. ROYAL DEFENSE (2) missed the frame last time out when sixth over 1000m at Ascot. Still a maiden but has been in the money on three occasions. Goes well at this journey with t